Judge Original Time & Length Special Relativity

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on understanding the concepts of original time and original length in the context of special relativity, particularly through the lens of the twin paradox. It emphasizes that proper time is measured by clocks at rest in an inertial reference frame (IFR), while proper length is also measured at rest. The twin paradox illustrates that one twin, remaining in an IFR, experiences more elapsed time compared to the twin who changes reference frames. The conversation highlights that while mathematical methods are often necessary for deeper understanding, basic linear algebra suffices for grasping the kinematical effects of relativistic spacetime.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inertial reference frames (IFR)
  • Basic knowledge of proper time and proper length in special relativity
  • Familiarity with the twin paradox concept
  • Basic linear algebra for kinematical effects
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the twin paradox in detail through non-mathematical explanations
  • Explore the implications of proper time and proper length in special relativity
  • Learn about inertial reference frames and their significance in physics
  • Investigate the role of basic linear algebra in understanding relativistic spacetime
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining special relativity, and anyone interested in the conceptual foundations of time and length in relativistic contexts.

Barry Z
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TL;DR
How to Judge original time and original length of special relativity
How to Judge original time and original length of special relativity
 
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How to explain twin paradox without using mathematical methods？
 
Barry Z said:
Summary:: How to Judge original time and original length of special relativity

How to Judge original time and original length of special relativity
Set an IFR first. Proper time for the IFR is measured by clocks at rest. Measures at rest show proper length.
 
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Barry Z said:
How to explain twin paradox without using mathematical methods？
One twin stays in an IFR where time to meet brother again ages more. Another twin transfers IFRs, once at least, that makes his time to meet brother again ages less.
 
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Barry Z said:
How to explain twin paradox without using mathematical methods？
What do you mean by mathematical methods? Is high school maths ok or do you want absolutely no maths at all?
 
In relativity, it turns out that the elapsed time measured by your clock is a measure of "distance" traveled through spacetime. Just like with distance between points in space, the "distance" between two events in spacetime depends on the route taken. The twins took different routes between the departure and return events, so have different elapsed times.

I don't think any of that is provable without maths, but it's the correct explanation.
 
It is impossible to talk in a meaningful way about physics without a minimum of math. For the here discussed kinematical effects of the relativistic spacetime model you only need basic linear algebra.
 

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