Question

Complete the following sentence: In the theory of special relativity, an event is a physical happening

a. that is observed by two obsoryers, one moving and one at rest.
b. that occurs at a certain place and time.
c. that occurs in an inertial reference frame
d. that occurs in an accelerating reference frame

Answer 1

In special relativity, an event is defined as a physical happening that takes place at a specific location and point in time, according to Einstein's theory which applies to inertial frames of reference.

Therefore the correct answer is option b that occurs at a certain place and time.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the theory of special relativity, an event is a physical happening that occurs at a certain place and time. This concept is rooted in the framework set by Einstein's postulates, which indicate that in an inertial frame of reference — a frame of reference in which a body at rest remains at rest and a body in motion moves at a constant speed in a straight line unless acted upon by an outside force — the laws of physics are invariant and the speed of light is a constant, regardless of the observer's state of motion.

Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is b: an event is a physical happening that occurs at a certain place and time.