- #1
elegysix
- 406
- 15
Is there a reason geometrized units convert everything to length?
Why not time or something else?
This seems odd to me.
Why not time or something else?
This seems odd to me.
The reason to choose length is in the name: geometrized. The idea comes from relativity, which in its mathematically cleanest form interprets all of the famous relativistic effects as features of the geometry of spacetime. In this geometry it makes sense to use units of length for time. Then, it is merely a matter of carrying that geometric idea through to all the other units.elegysix said:Is there a reason geometrized units convert everything to length?
Why not time or something else?
This seems odd to me.
Geometrized units are a system of units used in theoretical physics and relativity, in which fundamental physical constants such as the speed of light and the gravitational constant are set to unity. This simplifies calculations and allows for a more elegant description of physical phenomena.
Geometrized units are useful because they allow for a more fundamental and geometric understanding of physical laws. In this system, quantities such as mass, length, and time are all expressed in terms of a single unit, making it easier to compare and analyze different physical phenomena.
The concept of geometrized units is closely tied to the theory of relativity, as it was first introduced by Einstein in his theory of general relativity. In this theory, gravity is understood as a curvature of spacetime, and geometrized units allow for a more geometric interpretation of physical laws in this curved spacetime.
Some commonly used geometrized units include the geometrized speed of light, which is equal to 1, and the geometrized Planck mass, which is equal to the square root of the gravitational constant times the speed of light. Other examples include the geometrized Planck length and the geometrized Planck time.
While geometrized units are primarily used in theoretical physics and relativity, they can also be useful in some practical applications. For example, they are often used in cosmology and astrophysics to describe extreme conditions such as those near black holes or during the early stages of the universe. However, in most everyday situations, more familiar units such as meters and seconds are used.