The Consequences of Assuming that the Speed of Light is not Constant
Robert J. Heaston
The speed of light is the mortar that holds together the 20th century physics paradigm, which we have inherited in the 21st century. Many different functions of physics use the speed of light as a proportionality constant, a necessary component, or a limiting condition. Examples abound: special relativity, general relativity, mass-energy equivalence, fine structure constant, Rydberg number, Boltzmann constant, uncertainty principle, electromagnetic spectrum, Maxwell equations, Compton wavelength, properties of free space, Planck scale and many others. Some functions, that will be described, are new to the accepted physics paradigm, such as a specific superforce and the constant gravitation potential of light. The objective of this paper is to show how much of physics is dependent upon the speed of light and to indicate how disastrous the consequences would be if the speed of light were not constant. The constant speed of light must be retained in the 21st century physics paradigm. TOPIC AREA: Natural Philosophy.
