Time & Universe: Relative Meaning & Age

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of time relativity and its relationship to the age of the universe. It is mentioned that the universe is believed to be 13.7 billion years old according to a clock on Earth, but this may be slightly different in a frame of reference at rest with respect to the CMB. The conversation also touches on the idea of an absolute frame of reference, but concludes that there is only a frame at rest with respect to the CMB and not an absolute frame.
  • #1
ubcstudent
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If time is relative then what does it mean when they say the universe is 13.75 billion year old?
 
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  • #2
I believe the universe is 13.7 billion years old as per a clock on Earth. A clock at rest with respect to the CMB and away from any major gravitational sources would be SLIGHTLY faster. About 10 years faster by my estimate.
 
  • #3
ubcstudent said:
If time is relative then what does it mean when they say the universe is 13.75 billion year old?

Same as when we say "my car is 10 years old".
 
  • #4
Drakkith, are you suggesting, that there is absolute space-time FOR? More or less equal to CMB?
(1 - sqrt(1 - (370/300000)^2)))*13.7*10^9
10419 years according to me.
 
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  • #5
An absolute frame? No. But there is a frame that is at rest with respect to the CMB.
 

1. What is the concept of time in relation to the universe?

The concept of time is a fundamental aspect of the universe, as it measures the sequence of events and the duration between them. It is often described as the fourth dimension, alongside the three dimensions of space. Time is also closely linked to the expansion of the universe, as the rate of expansion determines the passage of time.

2. How old is the universe?

The current accepted age of the universe is approximately 13.8 billion years old. This age is determined through various methods, such as measuring the cosmic microwave background radiation and the expansion rate of the universe.

3. What is the theory of relativity and how does it relate to the universe?

The theory of relativity, proposed by Albert Einstein, explains the relationship between space and time, and how they are intertwined. It also describes the effects of gravity on the fabric of space-time. This theory has been instrumental in our understanding of the universe, particularly in explaining the behavior of objects at high speeds and in the presence of strong gravitational fields.

4. How do scientists measure the age of the universe?

Scientists use various methods to measure the age of the universe, such as analyzing the light from distant galaxies and supernovae explosions, studying the cosmic microwave background radiation, and measuring the expansion rate of the universe. These methods provide different estimates, but the most widely accepted age of the universe is around 13.8 billion years.

5. Is time relative in the universe?

Yes, according to the theory of relativity, time is relative and can be experienced differently by different observers, depending on their relative motion and position. This concept is known as time dilation and has been observed in experiments and astronomical observations. Additionally, the concept of time can also be affected by the presence of strong gravitational fields, as described by the theory of general relativity.

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