Action Quote by Max Planck
“The Theory of Relativity confers an absolute meaning on a magnitude which in classical theory has only a relative significance: the velocity of light. The velocity of light is to the Theory of Relativity as the elementary quantum of action is to the Quantum Theory: it is its absolute core.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Relativity: The Special and General Theory by Albert Einstein, 1916
Relativity defines light speed as an absolute constant, giving it a foundational role like Planck’s constant in quantum mechanics.
In simple terms: Light speed is the fixed core of relativity, like Planck’s constant in quantum theory.
Recognize absolute constants that anchor theories.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- teaching physics
- research
- science communication
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do absolute constants shape scientific frameworks?
- What limits arise when constants are redefined?
Relativity still depends on experimental verification of constants.