My head spins when I think about time

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nature of time, specifically distinguishing between proper time and coordinate time as defined in modern physics. Proper time is defined as what a clock measures, while coordinate time serves as a mathematical construct with specific properties. The conversation also explores philosophical implications, questioning whether time would exist if all movement ceased. Participants emphasize the importance of linking discussions to relevant readings for clarity and depth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's theories on time and space
  • Familiarity with the concepts of proper time and coordinate time
  • Basic knowledge of physics terminology and principles
  • Awareness of philosophical questions related to time and existence
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Einstein's theory of relativity and its implications on time measurement
  • Study the differences between proper time and coordinate time in physics
  • Explore philosophical discussions on the nature of time and existence
  • Investigate how time is perceived in various scientific disciplines, such as cosmology
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, philosophers interested in the concept of time, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of time's role in science and existence.

mixfijoe
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TL;DR
Time,
Hi I’m new to this site as well as physics. But it fascinates me.
Is time the creation of movement?
 
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The best way of keeping your head from spinning is to go with Einstein's definition: "Time is what a clock measures".

There is an analogy with something that Einstein didn't say because it was so obvious: "Distance is what a ruler measures".
 
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mixfijoe said:
TL;DR Summary: Time,

Hi I’m new to this site as well as physics. But it fascinates me.
Is time the creation of movement?
In modern science there are two concepts of time. Proper time is what a clock measured. Coordinate time is a coordinate in some coordinate charts (with some specific properties).

Proper time is the physical one, coordinate time is mathematical.
 
For me, it is the Earth that spins the non-renewable thread of time.
 
Just to nip a common follow-up in the bud; there are processes that aren't motion-based that take time and some can even be used to tell time/as clocks. So we know for sure it isn't required to be tied to motion.
 
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russ_watters said:
Just to nip a common follow-up in the bud; there are processes that aren't motion-based that take time and some can even be used to tell time/as clocks. So we know for sure it isn't required to be tied to motion.
Great answer. But what if everything stop moveing, from the smallest atom to the biggest galaxies. Would time still exist? Or would it stop?
 
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mixfijoe said:
Great answer. But what if everything stop moveing, from the smallest atom to the biggest galaxies. Would time still exist? Or would it stop?
Just Think Timex...

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https://therightreflection.com/change/takes-a-licking-and-keeps-on-ticking/
 
mixfijoe said:
But what if everything stop moveing, from the smallest atom to the biggest galaxies. Would time still exist? Or would it stop?
I think that belongs in Philosophy Forums, next to "If a tree falls in a forest and there's no one to hear it is there a sound?"
 
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Welcome to PF.

mixfijoe said:
Hi I’m new to this site as well as physics. But it fascinates me.
Is time the creation of movement?
mixfijoe said:
Great answer. But what if everything stop moveing, from the smallest atom to the biggest galaxies. Would time still exist? Or would it stop?

You've received good and patient answers to your question, so I'll close this thread for now.

As a tip -- PF works best if you can post links to your reading that you've been doing trying to answer your question. That helps us to address any confusions you may have, and answer your question at your current level of learning. Please keep that in mind for your future questions here. Thanks! :smile:
 
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