New Horizons in Education


No. 51 , Pages 56 - 67 , 2005

Conceptual Development of Einstein’s Mass-Energy Relationship

Chee Leong WONG & Kueh Chin YAP

Abstract

Einstein’s special theory of relativity was published in 1905. It stands as one of the greatest intellectual achievements in the history of human thought. Einstein described the equivalence of mass and energy as “the most important upshot of the special theory of relativity” (Einstein, 1919). In this paper, we will discuss the evolution of the concepts of Einstein’s mass-energy relationship during these 100 years. Challenges, issues and implications for curriculum development, instruction and assessment are also discussed.

Keywords: Einstein; mass-energy relationship; E = mc2

[Chinese Version | Index | New Horizons in Education | Other Journals | Subscription form | Enquiry ]


Mail any comments and suggestions to hkier-journal@cuhk.edu.hk .