After recalling the rigorous mathematical representations in Relativity Theory (RT) of (i) observers, (ii) reference frames fields, (iii) their classifications, (iv) naturally adapted coordinate systems (nacs) to a given reference frame, (v) synchronization procedure and some other key concepts, we analyze three problems concerning experiments on rotating frames which even now (after almost a century after the birth of RT) are sources of misunderstandings and misconceptions. The first problem, which serves to illustrate the power of rigorous mathematical methods in RT, (...) is the explanation of the Sagnac effect (SE). This presentation is opportune because recently there have appeared many non sequitur claims in the literature stating that the SE cannot be explained by SRT, even disproving this theory or claiming that the explanation of the effect requires a new theory of electrodynamics. The second example has to do with the measurement of the one-way velocity of light in rotating reference frames, a problem about which many wrong statements appear in recent literature. The third problem has to do with claims that only Lorentz-like type transformations can be used between the nacs associated with a reference frame mathematically modeling of a rotating platform and the nacs associated with a inertial frame (the laboratory). We show that these claims are equivocal. (shrink)

Based upon the proceedings of the First International Conference on the History of General Relativity, held at Boston University's Osgood Hill Conference Center, North Andover, Massachusetts, 8-11 May 1986, this volume brings together essays by twelve prominent historians and philosophers of science and physicists. The topics range from the development of general relativity (John Norton, John Stachel) and its early reception (Carlo Cattani, Michelangelo De Maria, Anne Kox), through attempts to understand the physical implications of the theory (Jean Eisenstaedt, Peter (...) Havas) and to quantize it (Peter G. Bergmann), to elaborations of the theory into a unified theory of electromagnetism and gravitation (Vladimir P. Vizgin, Michel Biezunski), and considerations of its cosmological extensions (Pierre Kerszberg, George F.R. Ellis). This is the first volume to survey many of the most important questions in the history of general relativity, with many of the contributions drawing upon such original resources as the Einstein Archive. It is hoped that it will stimulate much-needed further research in this hitherto neglected area. (shrink)

A distinguished American physicist and teacher delivers a landmark study thatdevelops three essential scientific themes on each subject.