In the history of modern physics, who developed the famous theory of relativity that transformed our understanding of space, time and gravity?

Introduction / Context:

This general knowledge question tests your awareness of one of the most important developments in modern physics. The theory of relativity reshaped how scientists think about space, time, motion and gravity. Knowing which scientist developed this theory helps you link names and ideas, which is frequently required in competitive exams that ask about major scientific contributions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The topic is the theory of relativity in physics.
• The question asks who developed this theory.
• The options list several famous scientists from different fields such as physics, biology and chemistry.
• You are expected to match the correct scientist with this well known theory.

Concept / Approach:

Albert Einstein, a theoretical physicist, is credited with developing both special relativity and general relativity in the early twentieth century. Special relativity deals with objects moving at constant high speeds and introduced the idea that measurements of time and space depend on the observer. General relativity extended this to include gravity, describing it as the curvature of space time caused by mass and energy. Other scientists in the options made equally important contributions, but in different areas. Isaac Newton formulated classical mechanics and universal gravitation, Charles Darwin worked on evolution by natural selection, and Marie Curie researched radioactivity. None of them developed the theory of relativity.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Physics textbooks and popular science books consistently attribute both special and general relativity to Albert Einstein. Historical timelines of twentieth century science highlight his 1905 papers on special relativity and his 1915 work on general relativity as major milestones. Public culture also strongly associates Einstein with relativity, reinforcing this connection and leaving no doubt about the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Isaac Newton developed classical mechanics and the law of universal gravitation but did not propose the relativistic view of space time.

Charles Darwin is known for the theory of evolution by natural selection in biology, not for any theory of relativity.

Marie Curie carried out pioneering work on radioactivity and discovered elements such as polonium and radium, but she did not create relativity theory.

Niels Bohr contributed to quantum theory and atomic models, which are different areas of physics from relativity.

Common Pitfalls:

Candidates sometimes confuse Newton and Einstein because both are famous physicists whose work involves gravity. The key difference is that Newton described gravity as a force acting at a distance, while Einstein described it as curvature of space time. Remembering that Einstein belongs to the modern, relativistic view helps you avoid mixing up these two names in exam questions.

Final Answer:

The theory of relativity was developed by Albert Einstein.