Time dimension extent of a 4-dimension object

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of physical objects having an extent in all three dimensions, and whether this extends to the time dimension as well. It is also questioned if this implies that objects exist in both the future and the past, and if photons are able to "see ahead" in order to behave appropriately in the two slit experiment. The idea of time and spatial dimensions in relation to objects is explored, with further references provided for interested readers.
  • #1
jpi
1
0
In three dimensions physical objects have an extent ( non-zero length ) along all three dimensions.

If it is accepted that the four dimensions of general relativity correspond to physical reality, does that imply that physical objects also have a non-zero ( non-infinitesimal ) extent along the time dimension?

If so, does an object exist, in part, in the future and the past?

If so, does if imply that a photon can "see ahead" enough to be behave appropriately in the two slit experiment?
 
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  • #2
Good questions.
jpi said:
If it is accepted that the four dimensions of general relativity correspond to physical reality, does that imply that physical objects also have a non-zero ( non-infinitesimal ) extent along the time dimension?
It would help if you thought about this in terms of how we describe things: i.e. we describe an object by defining an extent in 3D space. Similarly, if we described a length of time to describe it, we would just be describing a duration. That's exactly what you're doing when you ask, "how long is the movie?" With a event it is relatively simple: 'such and such occurred for so long.' With an object it is a little strange, we don't necessarily know how long an object will exist, or how long it has existed.
It comes in handy in particle physics though.

jpi said:
If so, does an object exist, in part, in the future and the past?
That's more of a philosophical question---how you interpret these things... but yes, that's definitely accurate to some extent.

jpi said:
If so, does if imply that a photon can "see ahead" enough to be behave appropriately in the two slit experiment?
No. Not at all. Photons can't 'see' anything---because they don't have a valid reference frame. Additionally, even if they could 'see,' they would no equivalent of actions---because everything would appear to be at the same instant in time and space... sounds weird because it doesn't work--you can't think in the photons frame.
 
  • #3
jpi said:
IIf so, does if imply that a photon can "see ahead" enough to be behave appropriately in the two slit experiment?

Photons are not alive, they don't "see" anything, and don't have a concept of appropriate behavior.
 
  • #5
You might enjoy reading Cramer's "Transactional Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics" (TIQM). He proposes that events involve QM waves moving both forward & backwards in time simultaneously.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TIQM
 

1. What is the concept of "time dimension" in a 4-dimensional object?

The concept of "time dimension" refers to the fourth dimension of a 4-dimensional object, which is often represented as the passage of time. It is a fundamental aspect of our existence and understanding of the world around us.

2. How is the time dimension measured in a 4-dimensional object?

The time dimension in a 4-dimensional object is typically measured in units of time, such as seconds, minutes, hours, etc. It is also important to note that the measurement of time can vary depending on the context and frame of reference.

3. Can the time dimension be visualized in a 4-dimensional object?

No, the time dimension cannot be visualized in the same way as the other three spatial dimensions in a 4-dimensional object. However, it can be represented and understood through mathematical models and equations.

4. How does the time dimension affect the perception of a 4-dimensional object?

The time dimension plays a crucial role in our perception of a 4-dimensional object. It allows us to understand and experience the changes and movements of objects in the fourth dimension, which is essential for our understanding of the world.

5. Is the time dimension the same in all 4-dimensional objects?

No, the time dimension can vary in different 4-dimensional objects depending on factors such as speed, gravitational pull, and other environmental factors. This concept is known as time dilation and is a key aspect of Einstein's theory of relativity.

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