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jeffreyH
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Have there been any experiments using atomic clocks underground as a comparison to those on the Earth's surface?
SteamKing said:I understand that experiments have been done on spacecraft orbiting the Earth to check time dilation. That seems to be a better experiment, since the craft are traveling at high (but not relativistic) velocities.
jeffreyH said:Not if you are trying to establish the internal gravitational effects on a mass. Does the gradient of the inverse square law peak at the surface for time dilation and then decrease towards the centre of gravity. I don't think anyone can answer this without experimental evidence. This proposition may on the surface of it appear to be trivial. Is it?
Drakkith said:Are you suggesting that we test our theories in every conceivable way to make sure they are accurate?
Claude Bile said:The best atomic clocks (found in standards laboratories) eject Cs atoms upward into a vacuum and measure the resonant frequency at the apex of their trajectory in order to negate time dilation due to general relativity.
So presumably, the effect of GR, even at these scales is well understood and routinely corrected for.
Claude.
iliedonUA said:why does it need to be an atomic clock? just because it's more accurate?
Atomic clocks use the natural vibrations of atoms to keep track of time. Specifically, they use the oscillations of an atom's nucleus or electrons to measure time intervals.
Atomic clocks are placed underground to shield them from external factors that can affect their accuracy, such as temperature changes, electromagnetic interference, and atmospheric pressure. This allows them to maintain a more stable and precise measurement of time.
Atomic clocks are considered the most accurate timekeeping devices, with an accuracy of one second in millions or even billions of years. When placed underground, they can achieve even higher levels of precision due to the reduced external influences.
Atomic clocks are used in a variety of scientific research fields, such as space exploration, satellite navigation, and fundamental physics experiments. They provide precise timekeeping for measuring and analyzing various phenomena, such as the effects of gravity and the behavior of atoms.
Yes, geological factors such as seismic activity and changes in the Earth's magnetic field can potentially affect the accuracy of atomic clocks underground. However, these factors are carefully monitored and compensated for by scientists to maintain the clocks' precision.