Newbie question about time dilation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the 1971 experiment that tested Einstein's theory of time dilation using atomic clocks. One clock remained stationary on the ground while another was flown around the world at 600 mph. Upon comparison, the moving clock was found to be behind by a few billionths of a second, confirming that a clock in motion runs slower than a stationary clock, as described by the equation \(\sqrt{1- \frac{v^2}{c^2}}\). This phenomenon illustrates that any time-measuring device, whether an atomic clock or a pendulum, experiences time dilation when in motion relative to a stationary observer.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's theory of relativity
  • Familiarity with atomic clocks and their operation
  • Basic knowledge of the speed of light (c) and its significance
  • Mathematical proficiency to comprehend the equation \(\sqrt{1- \frac{v^2}{c^2}}\)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of time dilation in GPS satellite technology
  • Explore the concept of relativistic effects in high-speed travel
  • Study the experimental setup and results of the Hafele-Keating experiment
  • Learn about the role of atomic clocks in modern physics and technology
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching relativity, and anyone interested in the practical applications of time dilation in technology such as GPS systems.

salamander3x
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I read about this experiment:

"In 1971, scientists used these clocks to test Einstein's ideas. One atomic clock was set up on the ground, while another was sent around the world on a jet traveling at 600 mph. When the clock flown around the world returned to the spot where the other clock was, it was behind by a few billionths of a second."

and I just wanted to know if the speed reduce the frequency to feed the clock counter or it have nothing to do with that.
 
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Well, that is the whole point of the experiment! A 'clock' moving at speed v will run slower that a stationary clock by a factor of [itex]\sqrt{1- \frac{v^2}{c^2}}[/itex]. I put 'clock' in quotes because any sort of regular motion or pulse that can be used to measure time (a pendulum, atomic disintegration, your pulse) will run slow as seen from from a "stationary" frame of reference. In that sense, time has slowed.
 

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