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mathematical technique > algebra > vector space > Minkowski space

Preferred term

Minkowski space  

Definition

  • In mathematical physics, Minkowski space (or Minkowski spacetime combines inertial space and time manifolds (x,y) with a non-inertial reference frame of space and time (x',t') into a four-dimensional model relating a position (inertial frame of reference) to the field (physics). A four-vector (x,y,z,t) consisting of coordinate axes such as a Euclidean space plus time may be used with the non-inertial frame to illustrate specifics of motion, but should not be confused with the spacetime model generally. The model helps show how a spacetime interval between any two events is independent of the inertial frame of reference in which they are recorded. Although initially developed by mathematician Hermann Minkowski for Maxwell's equations of electromagnetism, the mathematical structure of Minkowski spacetime was shown to be implied by the postulates of special relativity. Minkowski space is closely associated with Einstein's theories of special relativity and general relativity and is the most common mathematical structure on which special relativity is formulated. While the individual components in Euclidean space and time may differ due to length contraction and time dilation, in Minkowski spacetime, all frames of reference will agree on the total distance in spacetime between events. Because it treats time differently than it treats the 3 spatial dimensions, Minkowski space differs from four-dimensional Euclidean space. (Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minkowski_space)

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Entry terms

  • Minkowski space time
  • Minkowski space-time
  • Minkowski spacetime

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URI

http://data.loterre.fr/ark:/67375/MDL-LNHHZSTF-C

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