Faster than light theory #759309

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of achieving speeds faster than light by applying the concept of a propeller from a helicopter. However, the theory is not feasible due to the limitations of materials and the principles of special relativity.
  • #1
malikah
2
0
faster than light theory #759309...

imagine a propeller from a helicopter...we know that the part of the blade farthest form the pivot point moves faster than the section nearest to the pivot point... so in theory, if we could get the section nearset to the pivot point to move close to the speed of light, then would the outer most section be moving at, or faster than the speed of light? (taking into consideration that we are using the strongest materials we have and it is well lubed etc etc...) I'm not sure what purpose this would serve other than to get ones picture on the front of a science mag... but n e way...
 
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  • #2
no object is absolutely rigid as a consequence of special relativity. From an outsider's point of view, the blade would still be moving at a speed even nearer to the speed of light, when compared to the speed of the "section nearest to the pivot point".
There is no such "strongest" material anymore.
 
  • #3
Even if you theoretically consider a very rigid material, you cannot get the outer section to be moving at a speed greater than or equal to that of light.
Because in this case, the energy that you need to supply to the inner part would still exceed any amount of energy,since actually you are also providing energy to the outer part, if only indirectly.
 
  • #4
ahh..good answer..sigh...
 

1. What is the theory of faster than light travel?

The theory of faster than light travel, also known as FTL travel, suggests that it is possible for objects to travel faster than the speed of light, which is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second in a vacuum. This theory is based on the idea that space and time are interconnected and can be manipulated to allow for faster travel.

2. Is faster than light travel possible?

Currently, there is no scientific evidence to support the possibility of faster than light travel. The laws of physics, specifically Einstein's theory of relativity, suggest that the speed of light is the maximum speed at which anything can travel. However, some scientists continue to explore the concept and try to find ways to potentially make it possible in the future.

3. How would faster than light travel work?

The exact mechanism for faster than light travel is still unknown and is purely theoretical at this point. Some proposed methods include using wormholes, Alcubierre drive, or manipulating space-time itself. However, all of these methods require a tremendous amount of energy and technology that is currently beyond our capabilities.

4. What are the implications of faster than light travel?

If faster than light travel were possible, it would revolutionize space exploration and potentially open up new frontiers for human exploration and colonization. It could also have implications for time travel and communication, as well as challenge our understanding of the universe and the laws of physics.

5. Are there any experiments or research being done on faster than light travel?

Currently, there are some ongoing experiments and research being done on the concept of faster than light travel. However, most of these are at the theoretical and mathematical level, and there are no practical experiments or methods that have been successfully tested. This is a topic that continues to be explored and debated in the scientific community.

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