Entropy as a measure of time in relativity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the relationship between entropy and time in the context of relativity, particularly in scenarios involving identical systems accelerating to different speeds and the implications of the twin paradox. The scope includes theoretical considerations and conceptual clarifications related to thermodynamics and relativistic effects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that if two identical systems accelerate to different speeds and then return to the same speed, the system that traveled faster will have experienced a lesser degree of entropy than the slower one.
  • Another participant responds affirmatively to the initial claim, referencing the twin paradox and noting that while all measures of time are affected equally, entropy cannot reliably serve as a ticking clock due to its potential to remain constant under certain conditions.
  • This participant also mentions that if both systems conduct identical thermodynamic experiments, the processes will be time-dilated similarly to other physical processes.
  • A later reply introduces a question regarding the implications of the Rindler horizon's temperature for the accelerated observer, suggesting further complexity in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the role of entropy as a measure of time, with some agreeing on the effects of time dilation in the twin paradox while others raise additional considerations that complicate the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the implications of entropy in relation to time, particularly in accelerated frames, and the effects of the Rindler horizon remain unexplored in depth.

Galteeth
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Ok, so given two hypothetically identical systems (like two spaceships with identical mass, onboard matter, etc.) am I correct in thinking that if the two to accelerate to different speeds and fall back to the same speed, the one that was traveling faster will have experienced a lesser degree of entropy then the one traveling slower?
 
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Basically the answer to your question is that yes, in the twin paradox, all measures of time are affected equally. The only caveat is that the increase of entropy can't really be used as a ticking clock, e.g., entropy can stay constant depending on the conditions. But if both twins carry out identical thermodynamic experiments, e.g., watching ice cubes melt in a glass of water, then the process will certainly be time-dilated in the same way as any other physical process.
 
thanks
 
How does the scenario play out if the temperature of the Rindler horizon is considered for the accelerated observer?
 

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