Who developed the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity, which consists of the special theory of relativity and the general theory of relativity, was developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century. The special theory, introduced in 1905, addresses the physics of moving bodies and the relationship between space and time, proposing that the laws of physics are the same for all non-accelerating observers and that the speed of light is constant regardless of the motion of the light source. The general theory, presented in 1915, expands this framework to include gravity, describing it as a curvature of spacetime caused by mass.

Einstein's contributions fundamentally transformed our understanding of physics and the universe, leading to numerous advancements in both theoretical and experimental sciences. His theories have been confirmed by various experiments and observations, making them cornerstones of modern physics. The influence of his work continues to be felt across various fields today, from astrophysics to cosmology.