How Does the Theory of Relativity Explain Time Differences Between Cities?

In summary: ERICAN TIME ZONEIn summary, the time zone difference between two cities on the surface of the Earth is due to the angle of a line from the center of the sun to the city to a line between the center of the Earth and the center of the sun.
  • #1
mystry4
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I need further explanation on the following so I can understand it more completely. I know that the theory of relativity /space and time are connected with the invention of the syncoronized clock and time zone division, and that Einstein originally used train travel to explain his theory (I am assuming this is correct - please tell me if I am wrong). My confusion is trying to explain the hour difference between two cities in relationship to this concept. Can anyone help get me further down my path? (or am I thinking too much? )
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Time zones have nothing to do with general relativity. They are simply ways of standardizing time so that trade and travel would... make sense.
 
  • #3
and the most accurate way of timing the two events let's say a person observing and the person in the event (like in the rocket) is the cesium clock.
 
  • #4
mystry4 said:
I need further explanation on the following so I can understand it more completely. I know that the theory of relativity /space and time are connected with the invention of the syncoronized clock and time zone division, and that Einstein originally used train travel to explain his theory (I am assuming this is correct - please tell me if I am wrong). My confusion is trying to explain the hour difference between two cities in relationship to this concept. Can anyone help get me further down my path? (or am I thinking too much? )
Thanks!
You are thinking too much. Two cities on the surface of the Earth are not in relative motion (ignoring curvature and rotation of the earth). So they are in the same inertial frame of reference. Time dilation only occurs between two different inertial reference frames. The difference in measured (solar) time relates to the angle of a line from the centre of the sun to the city to a line between the centre of the Earth and the centre of the sun.

AM
 

FAQ: How Does the Theory of Relativity Explain Time Differences Between Cities?

What is the Theory of Relativity?

The Theory of Relativity is a scientific theory developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century to explain the relationship between space and time. It is composed of two parts: the Special Theory of Relativity and the General Theory of Relativity.

How does the Theory of Relativity explain time?

The Theory of Relativity states that time is relative, meaning it can be perceived differently by different observers. It suggests that the passage of time is affected by the speed and gravitational pull of an object, and that time can be dilated or slowed down in extreme conditions.

What is the difference between Special and General Theory of Relativity?

The Special Theory of Relativity deals with the relationship between space and time in the absence of gravity, while the General Theory of Relativity includes the effects of gravity. The Special Theory of Relativity explains concepts such as time dilation and length contraction, while the General Theory of Relativity explains the curvature of space-time caused by massive objects.

How has the Theory of Relativity been tested and proven?

The Theory of Relativity has been tested and proven through various experiments, including the measurement of the bending of starlight by the sun's gravitational pull and the observation of time dilation in high-speed particles. It has also been supported by countless observations and predictions made in the fields of astronomy and physics.

What are the practical applications of the Theory of Relativity?

The Theory of Relativity has many practical applications, including the development of technologies such as GPS and atomic clocks, which rely on the accurate measurement of time. It has also contributed to our understanding of the universe and has led to advancements in areas such as space travel and nuclear energy.

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