Can someone explain what the 4th Dimension is?

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SUMMARY

The 4th dimension, as explained in the discussion, is identified as time, which is essential for understanding the position of objects in space. The analogy provided illustrates how directions in three dimensions (north, right, up) must include a temporal component (when) to fully specify a location in the universe. The conversation emphasizes that dimensions serve as parameters to define events, with the first three dimensions indicating spatial position and the fourth dimension indicating time. This understanding is crucial for grasping concepts in physics related to events and their occurrences.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of spatial dimensions (1st, 2nd, and 3rd dimensions)
  • Familiarity with the concept of time as a dimension
  • Knowledge of physics principles related to events and their properties
  • Ability to visualize multi-dimensional spaces
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  • Research the implications of time as the 4th dimension in Einstein's theory of relativity
  • Explore the concept of spacetime and how it integrates time with three-dimensional space
  • Learn about higher dimensions in physics and their significance in theories like string theory
  • Investigate how dimensions affect the understanding of the universe's expansion
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Students of physics, educators explaining dimensional concepts, and anyone interested in the fundamental nature of the universe and time.

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Can someone explain what the 4th Dimension is?
 
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einstein stated that the 4th dimension is time, for example; if you wish to meet somebody some were you would give him directions as follows.
head north 100miles( 1st dimension) turn right and travel 2 miles(2nd dimension)
go up the flight of stairs to the top (3rd dimension) and meet me at 4 oclock(4th dimension).
This is only an anology and probably is not the best example
other people may have different views but i hope it helps
 
I always think of it like this. The universe is expanding, right? So if you wanted to tell me where to find some distant star you would have to tell me where to look (3 dimensions) and when (4th dimension) cos it aint always going to be there. Kind of hard to express but I hope this helps.
 
A "dimension" is simply a number used to specifiy something of importance. Physics deals with "events", things that happen at a particular position at a particular time. The first three dimensions give the position, the fourth the time.
 
Dimensions can be thought of some kind of parameter. For example, let's say you are walking from A to B. In 3D, we can only describe where you are, but in this case, you might be in A, B, or in between, if we don't mention the time. But, if we mention a certain time, let's say time 0(ie. when you first started walking), we will know that you are at A for sure, since you started there.
 
It is a special case only. Look more widely, guys.
In the general case, (n+1) dimension activates all previous (n) dimensions.


Michael
 

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