How can photon have frequency if its time is zero?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the concept of how a photon can possess a frequency despite the assertion that it does not experience the passage of time. Participants explore the implications of time measurement in relation to the properties of photons, particularly in the context of relativity.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that while a photon does not experience time, it still has a frequency, which is defined as cycles per unit time.
  • Another participant explains that frequency is measured by an observer, implying that the measurement depends on the observer's clock and reference frame.
  • A third participant questions the notion of a photon not experiencing elapsing time, suggesting that meaningful discussions about time require a reference frame, which photons lack.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the concept of time as it relates to photons, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of a photon having frequency without experiencing time.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexities of defining time and frequency in the context of relativistic physics, particularly concerning the lack of an inertial reference frame for photons.

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If I understand correctly:
"Time does not evolve for a photon."

However, a photon has a frequency (which is cycles/time).

Question: how can a photon have a frequency that is preserved while it travels despite the photon not experiencing any elapsing of time?
 
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The frequency is measured by an observer who sees the wave going by. The time is measured by that observer's clock.
 
Also, the concept of "photon not experiencing any elapsing of time" is questionable because (as has been discussed in many threads here) in order to talk about "elapsing of time" in a meaningful way you have to refer to a reference frame, and photons don't have inertial reference frames associated with them, that you can apply a Lorentz transformation to.
 
Thanks guys. It makes sense now.
 

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