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Space (physics) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Space is all the area around us. It's where everything exists, from tiny atoms to giant galaxies. We usually think of space as having three main measurements: length, width, and height. These help us describe how big something is or how far away it is.

In modern physics, scientists often talk about space as part of something bigger called space-time. This idea combines space and time into one four-dimensional concept. It helps us understand how the universe works. Some scientists believe space is a real "thing" that exists on its own. Others think it's more like a way to describe how different objects and events are related to each other.

How We Measure Space

We measure space using standard units. The basic unit for distance is the meter. A meter is defined by how far light travels in a vacuum (empty space) during a very, very short time. This time is about one three-hundred-millionth of a second. This precise definition helps scientists around the world agree on measurements.

Einstein and Space-Time

For a long time, people thought space and time were completely separate. But then, Albert Einstein came along with his ideas about relativity. He showed that space and time are actually connected.

Because of how motion works, space and time can be combined. This means that how you experience space and time can depend on how you are moving. Einstein's discoveries changed how we understand the universe. They showed that space and time are not fixed but can be linked together in what we call space-time.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Espacio (física) para niños

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