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kurious
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What is the definition of a clock in relativity theory?
Perfectly Innocent said:Typically, the meaning of a clock is not defined in relativity. No reason to worry. Logically, it's OK to just have blind faith that "ideal clocks" really do exist conceptually.
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The second is the duration of 9 192631 770 periods of the radiation corresponding to the transition between the two hyperfine levels of the ground state of the caesium-133 atom. [13th CGPM (1967), Resolution 1]
kurious said:What is the definition of a clock in relativity theory?
In relativity theory, a clock is any physical device that can measure time intervals. This can include traditional clocks like wristwatches or digital clocks, as well as more complex devices like atomic clocks.
The definition of a clock is important in relativity theory because it allows us to measure time intervals, which is a crucial concept in understanding the effects of time dilation and the relativity of simultaneity.
Relativity theory defines the measurement of time intervals as the comparison of two events using a clock. The clock measures the time elapsed between the two events, and this measurement can vary depending on the relative motion of the clock and the events.
No, not all clocks can be used to measure time intervals accurately in relativity theory. The clock must have a well-defined and consistent way of measuring time, and it must also be able to withstand the effects of motion and gravity.
The traditional definition of a clock is based on the regular motion of a pendulum or the oscillation of a quartz crystal. However, in relativity theory, the definition of a clock is more general and includes any physical device that can measure time intervals, regardless of its mechanism.