Does energy dilate time like mass?

In summary, in the very early universe, there was only energy and no mass for a fraction of a second. It is unclear if this energy had the same time dilation effect as the mass it eventually became. However, it is possible that time was passing at a similar rate to what we experience now and then slowed down as matter condensed out of the energy. The energy density is what curves space, which may have played a role in this process.
  • #1
KenJackson
63
10
If I understand it, in the very early universe there was only energy and no mass, I guess for only a fraction of a second.

Did that energy have the same time dilation effect as the mass it became?

If not, was time passing at a rate similar to what we experience right now and then suddenly hit the brakes as matter condensed out of the energy? If you suddenly have the mass of the universe in a relatively small region, it seems like time would practically stop.
 
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  • #2
Energy density is what curves space ... is that what you are thinking?
 

1. How does energy affect time dilation?

According to Einstein's theory of relativity, energy and mass are equivalent and can both cause time dilation. As energy increases, so does an object's mass, resulting in a slower passage of time.

2. Is time dilation caused by energy or mass?

Both energy and mass can cause time dilation. However, it is the total energy, including kinetic and potential energy, that contributes to an object's mass and therefore affects time dilation.

3. Can energy be used to control time dilation?

Energy alone cannot be used to control time dilation. Other factors such as the speed and gravitational pull of an object also play a role in determining the degree of time dilation.

4. Does energy always dilate time?

No, energy does not always dilate time. The amount of dilation depends on the object's speed and mass. For objects moving at slow speeds or with low energy, the effect of time dilation is negligible.

5. How is time dilation related to the concept of spacetime?

Time dilation is a consequence of the curvature of spacetime, which is caused by the presence of mass and energy. The more mass and energy an object has, the greater its effect on the curvature of spacetime and the slower time passes for that object.

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