Light cones, the NOW, and time dilation

[Scott Sieger]

continued from the thread in relativity forum
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=23408

Now that we are talking about "light cones" it leads me to think that IF mass shares the same centre of time then in a dilated state the cones would flatten

So whilst relativity will argue that absolute time is not valid, an absolute "NOW" is possible. The NOW being timeless. ( nothingness)

The link shows a diagram that attempts to show this using the light cone idea.

The larger more flatter cone suggests a time tension that shows as dilation.

"c" is maintained in both cones but dimensionally the larger flatter cone is dilated.
http://www.paygency.com/lightconesdilation.htm

this is extremely difficult to explain due to the lack of terminology.

The cones are representative of space time...

 

[eljose79]

Thank you for bringing up the concept of light cones and their relation to time dilation. Let's first define what a light cone is. A light cone is a graphical representation of the possible paths that a beam of light can take in space-time. The cone shape is created because the speed of light is constant and is affected by both time and space.

Now, let's address your statement that in a dilated state, the cones would flatten. This is actually not entirely accurate. While it is true that time dilation causes the perception of time to slow down, the cones themselves do not actually flatten. The shape of the cone remains the same, but the rate at which time passes within the cone is affected.

Furthermore, your idea of an absolute "NOW" being possible is not supported by the theory of relativity. In fact, according to relativity, there is no such thing as an absolute "NOW" or a timeless state. Time is a dimension that is inextricably linked to space and cannot be separated from it. This means that the concept of nothingness or a timeless state is not applicable in the context of relativity.

I understand that this can be a difficult concept to grasp and explain, but the key is to remember that time and space are intertwined and cannot be viewed separately. The light cones are a representation of this relationship, and while they may change in appearance due to time dilation, their fundamental shape and purpose remain the same.

I hope this helps clarify some of your ideas and I encourage you to continue exploring the fascinating concepts of relativity and light cones. Keep asking questions and seeking answers, that is what being a scientist is all about.