SR, what is the difference in ages between twins after space trip

In summary, two twins, Joe and Ed, experience a time difference due to Joe's constant high speed travel for 7 years and return trip at half the speed. The age difference between Joe and Ed after Joe's return is 21 years for Joe and 41 years for Ed. The mistake in the solution was the assumption that the time for the return trip was doubled in Joe's frame of reference.
  • #1
amiras
65
0

Homework Statement


Consider two twins, Joe and Ed. Joe goes off in a straight line traveling at speed of 24/25 c for 7 years as measured on his clock, then reverses and returns at half the speed. Ed remains at home.

Homework Equations


What is the age difference between twins after return?


The Attempt at a Solution


Joe is moving relative to stationary Ed, so time passes slower for Joe
Ed measures time: 7/sqrt(1-(v/c)^2) = 25, where v = 24/25 c

For backward trip:
Since the speed is halfed, the time it takes for Joe to return is doubled (in his frame of reference) 7*2=14 years.

Now the speed is halfed, Ed is again stationary relative to Joe
Ed measures time: 14/sqrt(1-(v/2c)^2) = 16 years

So It takes for Joe total of 7+14=21 years
and for Ed: 25+16 = 41 years.


What is the problem here?
 
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  • #2
amiras said:
For backward trip:
Since the speed is halfed, the time it takes for Joe to return is doubled (in his frame of reference) .

What is the problem here?

The problem is with the statement shown in blue. Think about why that isn't correct.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Yesterday while walking home, I understood what I was doing wrong, thanks for the reply!
 

1. What is "SR" in relation to the age difference between twins after a space trip?

SR stands for Special Relativity, which is a theory in physics that describes the relationship between time and space.

2. How does Special Relativity affect the age difference between twins after a space trip?

According to Special Relativity, time is relative and can be affected by factors such as gravity and velocity. Therefore, the difference in aging between twins after a space trip can be influenced by the speed at which they travel.

3. Is there a significant difference in the age of twins after a space trip?

Yes, there can be a significant difference in the age of twins after a space trip, depending on the duration of the trip and the speed at which they travel. This is due to the time dilation effect predicted by Special Relativity.

4. Can the age difference between twins after a space trip be reversed?

No, the age difference between twins after a space trip cannot be reversed. Once one twin has traveled at a high speed, they will always be younger than the twin who stayed on Earth due to the time dilation effect.

5. How can the age difference between twins after a space trip be calculated?

The age difference between twins after a space trip can be calculated using the formula t=t0 x √(1-(v/c)2), where t is the time experienced by the traveling twin, t0 is the time experienced by the twin on Earth, v is the velocity of the traveling twin, and c is the speed of light. This calculation takes into account the time dilation effect predicted by Special Relativity.

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