Classical Newtonian Physics: Space & Time Independence

In summary: This is because we can introduce functions by parameters, e.g. y(x)=x+t.In summary, classical Newtonian physics states that space and time are independent, but the equations of motion show a dependence between time and the position of a moving particle. Special Relativity, on the other hand, introduces a term that accounts for differences in simultaneity between observers, resulting in a different understanding of spacetime. In Newtonian spacetime, the time between two events is the same in every reference system, and if two events are simultaneous, the distance between them is the same in every reference frame. However, it is still possible to introduce functions that describe a relationship between space and time.
  • #1
Dimani4
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Hi folks,

Tell me please why in classical Newtonian physics one can say that the space and time are independent? But we have equations of motion which clearly show this dependence (x=Vt; x=x0+1/2at^2+v0t).

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Dimani4 said:
Hi folks,

Tell me please why in classical Newtonian physics one can say that the space and time are independent? But we have equations of motion which clearly show this dependence (x=Vt; x=x0+1/2at^2+v0t).

Thank you.

That's not dependence between time and space. That's a dependence between time and the position of a particle that is moving at a specific velocity.
 
  • #3
Dimani4 said:
Hi folks,

Tell me please why in classical Newtonian physics one can say that the space and time are independent? But we have equations of motion which clearly show this dependence (x=Vt; x=x0+1/2at^2+v0t).

Thank you.
There is no "t=Ax" term in Newtonian relativity, so this means that time is only coupled to space in one regard (the one that you mention). SR puts this term in, so is really a generalization of Galilean relativity. The term it puts in is responsible for differences in simultaneity between observers.
 
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  • #4
Two facts about Newtonian spacetime that are both different from the spacetime of Special Relativity are:
  1. The time between two events is the same in every reference system.
  2. If two events are simultaneous, then the distance between them is the same in every reference frame.
 
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  • #5
If you have a Cartesian frame {xy}, the x and y-directions are linear independent. But this doesn't mean we cannot introduce functions y(x), i.e. curves describing a relation between x and y.
 
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1. What is Classical Newtonian Physics?

Classical Newtonian Physics is a branch of physics that studies the motion of objects and their interactions under the influence of external forces. It is based on the laws of motion and gravitation developed by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century.

2. What is the principle of Space Independence in Classical Newtonian Physics?

The principle of Space Independence states that the laws of motion and gravitation are the same in all inertial frames of reference, regardless of their position or motion in space. This means that the laws of physics should be the same for an object on Earth as it is for an object in space.

3. How does Classical Newtonian Physics explain the concept of time independence?

Time independence in Classical Newtonian Physics refers to the fact that the laws of motion and gravitation are not affected by the passage of time. This means that the behavior of an object in motion will be the same whether it is observed now or at a later time.

4. What is the significance of the concept of independence in Classical Newtonian Physics?

The concept of independence in Classical Newtonian Physics is significant because it allows us to study the behavior of objects and predict their motion without being affected by external factors such as position or time. This makes it a useful tool for understanding and predicting the behavior of objects in our daily lives.

5. How does Classical Newtonian Physics relate to modern physics?

Classical Newtonian Physics is considered the foundation of modern physics and is still widely used in many fields, such as engineering and mechanics. However, it has been superseded by more advanced theories such as Einstein's theory of relativity and quantum mechanics, which provide a more accurate understanding of the behavior of objects at high speeds and on a small scale.

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