Understanding the Role of a(t)*dr in Calculating Actual Distance

In summary, the conversation discusses the proper distance and how it changes with respect to time due to the expanding universe. The difference between dr and a(t)*dr in terms of distance is also questioned, with the proper distance being considered the more accurate measure.
  • #1
Apashanka Das
actually I want to clarify that is the proper distance a(t)*dr is the elementary length along the radial direction which is changing with respect to time and if integrating a(t)*dr and dr ,which may be considered the actual distance
 
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  • #2
Apashanka Das said:
actually I want to clarify that is the proper distance a(t)*dr is the elementary length along the radial direction which is changing with respect to time and if integrating a(t)*dr and dr ,which may be considered the actual distance
What is done in these coordinates is to fix the calculation to be at a specific time. The proper distance will be different at different times because the universe is expanding, meaning objects within the universe are getting further apart.

Anyway, if you want a good, detailed breakdown of the distance measures used in cosmology, this is a good summary:
https://arxiv.org/pdf/astro-ph/9905116.pdf
 
  • #3
actually what is the difference between dr and a(t)*dr in terms of distance?Which shall be considered the exact distance between two points say at time t?
 
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Related to Understanding the Role of a(t)*dr in Calculating Actual Distance

1. What is the meaning of a(t)*dr in calculating actual distance?

A(t)*dr is an expression used in physics and mathematics to represent the instantaneous change in position, or displacement, over a small interval of time. In simpler terms, it is the rate at which an object's position is changing over time.

2. How is a(t)*dr related to the concept of velocity?

A(t)*dr is directly related to velocity, as it represents the change in position over a small period of time. Velocity is defined as the rate at which an object's position changes over time, and it can be calculated by dividing the change in position by the change in time.

3. Why is a(t)*dr important in calculating actual distance?

A(t)*dr is important because it allows us to calculate the actual distance traveled by an object, taking into account any changes in velocity that may occur over time. By using this expression, we can accurately determine the total distance an object has traveled, even if its velocity is changing constantly.

4. How is a(t)*dr used in real-world applications?

A(t)*dr is used in various real-world applications, such as calculating the distance traveled by a moving vehicle, determining the displacement of an object in motion, or predicting the position of a satellite in orbit. It is also used in calculus to find the area under a curve, which has many practical applications in fields such as engineering and physics.

5. Can a(t)*dr be negative?

Yes, a(t)*dr can be negative. This would indicate that the object is moving in the opposite direction of its initial position. For example, if a car starts at position 0 and moves -5 meters in 1 second, the a(t)*dr would be -5 meters per second.

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