Nonlinear Inertial Transformations Explored
Published:Dec 31, 2025 18:22
•1 min read
•ArXiv
Analysis
This paper challenges the common assumption of affine linear transformations between inertial frames, deriving a more general, nonlinear transformation. It connects this to Schwarzian differential equations and explores the implications for special relativity and spacetime structure. The paper's significance lies in potentially simplifying the postulates of special relativity and offering a new mathematical perspective on inertial transformations.
Key Takeaways
- •The most general inertial frame transformation is nonlinear.
- •The Law of Inertia leads to Schwarzian differential equations.
- •Transformations preserving the speed of light remain affine linear.
- •Potentially simplifies the postulates of special relativity.
Reference
“The paper demonstrates that the most general inertial transformation which further preserves the speed of light in all directions is, however, still affine linear.”