Time Travel: Why Only to CTC's Creation?

In summary, it is theorized that travel to the past is only possible to the point at which the closed timelike curve (CTC) was created. This is because a CTC is a specific time-like curve in space-time that turns in on itself. By observing that events do not repeat, we can deduce that we are not currently in a CTC. Therefore, it is not possible to go back in time to a point before the CTC was created.
  • #1
Starlover
15
0
In theorized travel to the past -- in particular with a closed timelike curve (CTC), why is it possible to only go back in time to the point at which the CTC was created?

Questions related to this would be:
1) Can space curve into a CTC if it was not originally in a CTC?
2) How can we be sure that we (or Earth) are not already in a CTC? (Is it because there is no gravity source powerful enough to create a CTC, in our immediate vicinity?)
 
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  • #2
As time travel to the past is thought to be forbidden, and CTCs are thought to be forbidden in physical space times, this thread is just speculation.

1) Space can't curve into a CTC, a CTC is a specific everywhere forward directed time-like curve in space-time which turns in on itself.

2) Things don't keep repeating, i.e. we don't keep going back to the same events, so by observation, we can deduce we are not in a CTC.
 

FAQ: Time Travel: Why Only to CTC's Creation?

What is a CTC and why is it important for time travel?

A CTC, or Closed Timelike Curve, is a hypothetical path through space and time that allows for time travel. It is important because it is the only type of path that would allow for time travel to the past without causing paradoxes or inconsistencies.

Can time travel only occur at the exact moment of a CTC's creation?

Yes, in order for time travel to occur to a specific point in time, the CTC must be created at that exact moment. Any slight deviation from that moment would result in time travel to a different point in time.

How is a CTC created and can it be controlled?

A CTC could potentially be created through the manipulation of space-time using advanced technology or by exploiting natural phenomena such as black holes. However, at this point in time, it is purely theoretical and cannot be controlled or created.

Would time travel to a CTC's creation alter the present timeline?

It is believed that time travel to a CTC's creation would not alter the present timeline. This is because the events that lead to the creation of the CTC have already occurred and cannot be changed.

Are there any potential dangers or consequences of time travel to a CTC's creation?

There could be potential dangers or consequences of time travel to a CTC's creation, such as causing a paradox or altering the timeline in unforeseen ways. Additionally, the technology and knowledge required for time travel to a CTC's creation could have ethical implications and should be carefully considered.

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