Exam-style question
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Explain why the speed of light in vacuum is considered constant for all inertial observers.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Because the speed of light in vacuum is a universal constant, it is the same for all inertial observers, independent of their relative motion, which is a fundamental postulate of special relativity.
Explanation
Why this works
Rule: The constancy of the speed of light in vacuum is a postulate of special relativity. Substitution: none.
Working: none. Answer: The speed of light is the same for all inertial observers.
Units: none. Conclusion: This invariance underpins the theory of special relativity.
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