Time dilation in relation to earth time

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of time dilation and its effect on relative velocity. It is questioned whether the lack of gravitational presence on a spaceship traveling at 1000MPH over 5000 miles would result in a shorter time of 3.5 hours to reach the destination. However, it is concluded that despite the changes in relative time and velocity due to gravity, the ship still takes 5 hours to reach the destination. This is because the ship is defined as traveling at 1000MPH over 5000 miles, regardless of the effects of relativity.
  • #1
anoose101
1
0
So I was watching a tv show when an idea just popped into my head, If let's say a spaceship left point A on Earth at (for arguments sake) 1000MPH and was to reach point B (5000 miles away) in 5 hrs. Now due to time dilation the ship itself only took 3.5 hrs to get there due to lack of gravitational presence the trip was a shorter time. Now my question is on Earth does it still take 5 hrs to get there or does it actually only take 3.5 hrs and further does that mean that lack of gravity=increase in relative velocity?
 
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  • #2
Velocity is distance over time. A change in gravity changes relative time and so changes the relative velocity.

The ship still takes 5 hours to get there no matter how you look at it, because you defined the ship as traveling at 1000MPH over 5k miles.

Relativity is the result of our definitions of time and space.
 

1. What is time dilation in relation to earth time?

Time dilation is a phenomenon in which time appears to pass slower for objects that are moving at high speeds or experiencing strong gravitational fields. This means that the time on a clock for an object in motion or in a strong gravitational field will run slower compared to a clock on Earth.

2. How is time dilation related to Einstein's theory of relativity?

Einstein's theory of relativity states that time and space are not absolute, but are relative to the observer's frame of reference. Time dilation is a consequence of this theory as it shows that time can be perceived differently depending on the observer's frame of reference.

3. Can time dilation be observed on Earth?

Yes, time dilation can be observed on Earth but it is only noticeable in extreme conditions such as near the speed of light or in strong gravitational fields. In everyday life, the effects of time dilation are too small to be noticed.

4. How does time dilation affect space travel and satellite communication?

Time dilation plays a crucial role in space travel and satellite communication. As objects move at high speeds in space, their time runs slower, which means that clocks on spacecrafts will be out of sync with clocks on Earth. This has to be taken into account for accurate timing in space missions and satellite communication.

5. Is time dilation a proven concept?

Yes, time dilation has been proven through numerous experiments and observations, including the famous Hafele-Keating experiment in 1971. It is also an essential concept in modern physics and is used in various fields such as astrophysics and GPS technology.

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