Question

Which statement best describes the "fabric" of space and time as outlined by the classical physics of Newton?

A) Space is expanding uniformly, while time passes more slowly as the universe ages.
B) Space becomes "curved" and time slows down near a source of gravity, as measured by a distant observer.
C) The shape of space and the rate of passage of time depend on the relative velocities of observer and observed.
D) Space is perfectly uniform, filling everywhere like a fixed network, while time passes at a uniform rate for all observers.

Answer 1

The classical Newtonian view described space as uniform and unchanging, and time as passing uniformly for all observers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that best describes the "fabric" of space and time as outlined by the classical physics of Newton is: D) Space is perfectly uniform, filling everywhere like a fixed network, while time passes at a uniform rate for all observers.

Newton's classical view posits that space is like a static stage upon which all physical events occur, not affected by the presence of matter or the motion of objects. Similarly, time in Newton's universe ticks away at the same pace for everyone, regardless of circumstances. This is fundamentally different from Einstein's theory of general relativity, which posits that space and time are dynamical entities that can be warped and distorted by the presence of mass and energy.