Physical Meaning of Time Inverse

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of the inverse of time, specifically its relationship to periodic functions and cycles. It establishes that the period (T) of a periodic function is measured in seconds, while frequency (f) is the reciprocal of time, measured in hertz (Hz). Participants debate the implications of comparing cycles with different radii and the notion of infinite time when time is zero. The conclusion affirms that the inverse of time corresponds to the period of a periodic function, but emphasizes the distinction between period and frequency.

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  • Understanding of periodic functions and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concepts of frequency and period
  • Basic knowledge of phasors in wave motion
  • Concept of time measurement in physics
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  • Study the implications of zero time in physical systems
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Students of physics, mathematicians, and anyone interested in the fundamental concepts of time, periodic functions, and wave motion analysis.

Antonio Lao
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The inverse of time is the period of a periodic function. A cycle is a completion of one period hence a cycle is a quantum of motion. But how do we compare one cycle to a different cycle without having to use the geometry of a circle with different radii? If the radii are equal then the cycles are the same. If the radii are not equal? The smaller radius can be used to quantify the larger cycle of the two cycles.

So when time is zero, we are dealing here with a cycle that takes infinite time to complete.

The concept of frequency in the physics of waves motion is also time inverse more specifically multiple inverse of time.
 
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Antonio Lao said:
The inverse of time is the period of a periodic function.
I think not. The period T of a periodic function has the dimension of time. The unit is the second.
The frequency of a periodic function has the dimension of reciprocal time. The unit is the hertz, Hz.

If you represent the periodic motion as a phasor that rotates once per cycle then a periodic function will have the same radius for each cycle.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phasor

Antonio Lao said:
So when time is zero, we are dealing here with a cycle that takes infinite time to complete.
That appears to be an irrational conclusion.

 
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Baluncore said:
If you represent the periodic motion as a phasor that rotates once per cycle then a periodic function will have the same radius for each cycle.
Doesn't just just indicate that amplitude is the same? Of course "the inverse of time is the period of a periodic function" is correct. Hz simplified is just some wave-motion per second.
 
lolsurround said:
Of course "the inverse of time is the period of a periodic function" is correct.

No it's not, as already been pointed out. We measure period in seconds, and inverse of time is 1/sec.
 

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