Question

The global positioning system (GPS) uses electromagnetic waves sent between computer devices on Earth and satellites in space to automatically determine the exact position of the computer device on Earth. In order to create this technology, engineers had to apply Einstein’s theory of relativity, which explains how electromagnetic waves change direction in space.

During which stage of developing the global positioning system did engineers first apply the theory of relativity to design the product?

first
second
third
fourth

Answer 1

second

Engineers applied Einstein’s theory during the design/development stage to correct satellite clock rates and signal timing (so the system would give accurate positions).