Defining Time: What Does Science Say?

  • Thread starter Thread starter MACHO-WIMP
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Time
Click For Summary
The scientific definition of time is primarily based on atomic clocks, specifically the International Atomic Time (TAI), which averages the time from over 200 atomic clocks worldwide. Time is often described as what a clock measures, representing duration, but it remains an indefinable property that cannot be empirically tested. The discussion highlights the complexities of time in the context of relativity, where different observers may experience time differently based on their relative velocities or gravitational fields. The relationship between time and change is emphasized, suggesting that without change, the concept of time loses its meaning. Ultimately, the conversation reflects the ongoing philosophical and scientific debates surrounding the nature of time and its measurement.
  • #31
The best definition that I ever saw was from an incredibly wise writer. (I think that it might have been Douglas Adams, but I'm not sure.)

Time is Nature's way of keeping everything from happening at once.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
Dali said:
This might seem lika a dumb definition of time and space at first, but it is still remarkable that such a simple operational definition is what underlies the whole complexity of special and general relativity.

Agreed. Nice post Dali.
 
  • Like
Likes Dali

Similar threads

  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
6K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
4K
  • · Replies 63 ·
3
Replies
63
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
6K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K