Einsteins greatest accomplishments were the observations that there was not
perfered reference frame (where time and space were consider to comprise a
reference frame) and the general theory of relativity which followed from
the above observation. The e = mc^2 thing really followed form extending
the reasoning of the Dutch school of physics. It is interesting that this
equation equating matter and energy (which was in contradiction with the
tradition concepts of conservation of matter) led tp the development of
quantum physics, a theory that Einstein could not accept.
Today, with newer and more accurate instrametation, the accuracy of the
predictions of general relativity is truely amazing.
> Much of what we use in today's engineering world is based on old stuff
> (say newtonian physics) which is known to be in error, but is
> nevertheless still good enough for our purposes.
Interestingly enough this is not always the case. When man started using
satellites for sensing there could be significant errors resulting form
relativistic effects. Take the Global Positiong System (GPS). Each
satellite carries a clock. Each clock is in motion with respect to the
other clocks and the earth. This requires a correction based on the
effects of special relativity. The small time warping associated with the
gravational field of the earth also requires general relativity for
compensation.
One of the problems with quantum physics is the mere act of observing the
state of a system can alter that state. There are many theories in quantum
physics that cannot be tested but do explain many observations that cannot
be otherwise explained. For expample the theory of "parallel universes" -
a theory popularized by a current TV show.
The inability to directly observe the state of a system is also a problem
in biological systems. For example researchers would sure like to be able
to directly measure the levels of electrolytes in the cell. This inability
to directly measure inhibits the ability to develop a model which can be
used to design further experiments. It may not only be that research
directly related to endurance horses has not been funded, it could also be
that the information needed from experiments is not directly available,
like K+ levels in the cells.
Until the time we have such questions answered, it may be prudent to base
the diet of an endurance horse on the knowledge gained by the experienced
riders and vets in the sport. While this may not be scientific, most
scientific theories are developed by intutition gained through observation
and a lot of hard work - or to quote "5% inspration and 95% prespiration"
Truman
Truman Prevatt
Sarasota, FL