IB Physics HL A 5 5 Hl Two Postulates of Special Relativity Questions
Apply the two postulates of special relativity to light-speed invariance, inertial frames, simultaneity, observations and the Michelson–Morley result.
Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL
Exam points
State and apply the two postulates of special relativity: relativity principle and invariant light speed.
Use the postulates to reason about observations in inertial frames with complete mark-scheme evidence.
IB Physics HL A 5 5 Hl Two Postulates of Special Relativity Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 3]
This question is about the Michelson-Morley experiment.
The diagram shows the basic features of the Michelson-Morley experiment.
Question (a)
(a)
Describe how the observations made by Michelson and Morley differed from what was expected.
[ 1 ]
there was no change (in the interference pattern observed);
Question (b)
(b)
Explain the importance of the outcome of the Michelson-Morley experiment in support of the special theory of relativity.
[ 2 ]
the speed of light doesn't depend on motion (through the ether) / there is no ether; the speed of light (in a vacuum) is the same for all inertial observers;