Trying to understand time delineation

  • Thread starter Vivaci
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In summary, Vivaci is trying to understand time dilation, but is having trouble because her mind goes all fuzzy when she gets to this part. She has made a graphical representation of her thoughts to try and reason it out, but still no success. She states that she prefers to start from the spacetime interval and derives all of the relativistic effects from it. Finally, she mentions that imageshack is one of the blocked sites in China, obscuring her diagrams.
  • #1
Vivaci
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Hi, it is my first time posting on this forum, and you have no doubt seen similar questions.

I am just an average person trying to understand the concept of time dilation. So I've read through the theory, but my mind goes all fuzzy when I get to this part.
So I know I'm missing something major, and I might be comparing apples with pears.

I made this graphical representation (of my thoughts) to try and reason it out. Still no success. Could someone explain in layman's terms, with reference to my pics?

[PLAIN]http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/8779/timedelineation.jpg
 
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  • #2
Hi Vivaci, welcome to PF,

I can't really follow your diagrams. Perhaps you can work in a traditional 1,1 spacetime diagram which is drawn with the time axis vertical and one spatial dimension horizontal with the other two spatial dimensions suppressed to make it easier to draw.

As far as an easy explanation, I actually prefer to start from the spacetime interval. There is a quantity called the spacetime interval which is the same in all reference frames. It can be written:

ds²=-c²dt²+dx²+dy²+dz²

All of the relativistic effects can be derived from this one formula.
 
  • #3
Welcome to PF, Vivaci!

I think I understand your first two lines of diagrams. Nothing wrong with them except the "when you will see the object..." part, this point is obviously to the right of "You" in the first diagram.
However, they have nothing to do with time dilation, the're only concerning the classical doppler effect.
Time dilation is what is left after you correct for light travel times. You have to draw http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_d...ce_of_time_dilation_due_to_relative_velocity" to derive it, and you have to use the assumption that the speed of light is the same in all diagrams.

For your other diagrams: you don't need 3D graphs for this "experiment". Try to plot the relevant events and worldlines in a simple 2D time/distance diagram. You'll need http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spacetime_diagram" anyway if you want to learn relativity.
 
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  • #4
Perhaps it is my account but I do not see any diagrams.
Oh, never mind, I found out why, here in China not everything is accessible and imageshack is one of the blocked sites.
 

FAQ: Trying to understand time delineation

What is time delineation?

Time delineation is the process of dividing time into smaller segments in order to better understand and organize it. This can be done in various ways, such as using clocks, calendars, or other methods of measurement.

Why is understanding time delineation important?

Understanding time delineation is important because it allows us to better manage and make sense of our lives. It helps us keep track of schedules, appointments, and deadlines, and can also aid in studying historical events and patterns.

How do scientists study time delineation?

Scientists study time delineation using various methods, such as conducting experiments, analyzing data from different time periods, and observing patterns and changes in time. They may also use mathematical models and theories to better understand the concept.

Can time delineation be subjective?

Yes, time delineation can be subjective. Different cultures and individuals may have different ways of dividing and perceiving time. This can also be influenced by factors such as personal experiences and emotions.

How does our understanding of time delineation impact our daily lives?

Our understanding of time delineation greatly impacts our daily lives. It allows us to plan and organize our activities, manage our time effectively, and keep track of important events. It also plays a significant role in various industries, such as transportation, communication, and technology.

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