Light Speed: Distance & Time Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between distance, speed, and time, specifically referencing the equation D = S * T, where D represents distance, S is the speed of light, and T is time. Participants clarify that the speed of light remains constant and that time cannot be manipulated to alter this speed. The concept of spacetime is addressed, emphasizing that it is mathematically represented as a 4D manifold rather than a fabric. Basic definitions of distance and time are provided, reinforcing their measurement through rulers and clocks, respectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly distance, speed, and time.
  • Familiarity with Einstein's theories of relativity.
  • Knowledge of mathematical representations of spacetime.
  • Awareness of the distinction between theoretical physics and philosophical interpretations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Einstein's theory of relativity and its implications on spacetime.
  • Study the mathematical representation of spacetime as a 4D manifold.
  • Explore the principles of speed of light in various frames of reference.
  • Investigate the philosophical implications of time and distance in theoretical physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching relativity, and anyone interested in the fundamental concepts of distance and time in the context of modern physics.

Dorky0
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Hello forums,

I'm kind of new nice to meet you guys and girls,

Could someone please explain this to me?

D=S * TTherefore Distance = Speed of light * TimeAnd then Distance = Speed of light + 7 * TimeWhat is Distance and what is time?
 
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If you increase the speed,then the time required decreases to cover the same distance.

Is there anyway to decrease the speed of time so that the speed of light increases, perhaps in all honesty change the distance too because I heard that there is a fabric to space.
 
Welcome to PF!

I'm sorry, but this all really doesn't make any sense. The equation says if you go a certain speed for a certain time you go a certain distance. That's it. Not sure why you'd throw a "7" in there...

And the speed of light and rate of passage of time are always the same for you.
 
Dorky0 said:
Is there anyway to decrease the speed of time so that the speed of light increases, perhaps in all honesty change the distance too because I heard that there is a fabric to space.

There is no such way. And spacetime is not a fabric. That's an extremely simplified analogy that doesn't represent the full picture, namely that spacetime is represented mathematically by a 4D manifold.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spacetime_topology

Dorky0 said:
What is Distance and what is time?

Distance is that which a ruler measures, and time is that which a clock measures. :wink:
Seriously. That is a basic definition of distance and time. Even Einstein's papers on Relativity use a form of these basic definitions and our ways of teaching relativity involve problems in which we literally insert clocks into different frames of reference. There is no confusion or ambiguity in nearly all of physics about what these things are. If you hear otherwise, then you are dealing with highly theoretical physics, something outside of physics (such as philosophy), or you're dealing with someone who doesn't know what they are talking about.
 
russ_watters said:
Not sure why you'd throw a "7" in there...
Days of the week? :smile:

Thread is now closed.
 
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