Special Relativity Derived from Cellular Automata Theory: The Origin of the Universal Speed Limit

Abstract

A new formulation of Special Relativity is described. It is based on Cellular Automata theory and on a new theory of inertia called Quantum Inertia. The universe consists of a huge 3D array of cells given by C(x,y,z), whose numeric states are updated by every new CA clock period. The numeric state of the cells depends on the contents of the imediate neigbours and on the mathematical rules of the cell, with each cell containing the same set of rules. Photon motion on the CA is represented by information patterns 'shifting' from cell to adjacent cell at every clock cycle, and this represents the universal speed limit. The Lorentz Transformations follow directly from this model of light motion. The concept of mass and inertia is revised to be compatible with the CA model.