I The Twin Paradox implies that the Universe as a whole is a special frame

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The discussion centers on the Twin Paradox and its implications regarding the universe as a special frame of motion, as mentioned in Martin Gardner's "Relativity Simply Explained." Participants argue that the notion of a universal frame may be a misunderstanding, emphasizing that special relativity does not require a preferred frame of reference. The complexities of non-inertial motion and the role of acceleration in the paradox are highlighted, with some suggesting that Gardner's interpretation adds unnecessary complications. Clarifications about inertial frames and the geometry of space-time are discussed, indicating that the aging difference between the twins is due to changes in velocity and the resulting lines of simultaneity. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the need for precise understanding of relativity concepts to avoid misconceptions.
  • #31
PeterDonis said:
Where have you been seeing that?
uh, right here? For one.
 
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  • #32
thetrellan said:
uh, right here? For one.
Pervect isn't saying what you are saying, though - in fact he explicitly says "the one that undergoes inertial motion will have the longest elapsed time on their clock". Am I correct in my interpretation above, that you are reading his Euclidean length analogy as saying the traveller should be older? Because that's a difference between Euclidean and Minkowski geometry.
 
  • #33
thetrellan said:
uh, right here? For one.

@pervect says exactly the opposite:

pervect said:
if two twins take different routes and meet up again, the one that undergoes inertial motion will have the longest elapsed time on their clock

The one that undergoes inertial motion is the stay-at-home twin, not the traveling twin.
 
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