Define Mass: Travels Through Time?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the definition of mass, particularly in relation to its interaction with time. Participants argue that defining mass as something that "interacts with time" may be more practical than the traditional definition of "that which warps spacetime." However, there is consensus that both definitions could be misleading. The conversation highlights the complexity of defining mass in a way that accurately reflects its physical properties.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly mass and spacetime.
  • Familiarity with the principles of general relativity.
  • Knowledge of how mass interacts with gravitational fields.
  • Awareness of philosophical implications in scientific definitions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the standard definitions of mass in physics literature.
  • Explore the implications of mass in general relativity.
  • Study the relationship between mass and time in theoretical physics.
  • Investigate alternative definitions of mass in different scientific contexts.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators in science, and anyone interested in the philosophical and scientific discussions surrounding the concept of mass.

toastercombo
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Would it be misleading (to myself) to define mass as that which (insert a group of words like interacts with/experiences/ travels through/ is affected by/...your preference) time? That seems more useful than "that which warps spacetime."
 
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Both of those definitions would be misleading.
 
I agree with Orodruin, both would be misleading.

Is there a particular standard definition of mass that you are having trouble understanding?
 

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