Relativity Theory: Connecting Gravitational & Velocity Time Dilation

In summary, special and general relativity do not make a direct connection between gravitational time dilation and time dilation experienced at high velocity. However, according to the equivalence principle, the effects of acceleration can be equivalent to those of gravitation. This means that time dilation and length contraction effects due to velocity may be present in certain situations.
  • #1
Shaw
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Does relativity theory make a connection between gravitational time dilation, and the time dilation experienced at high velocity?
 
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  • #2
Special relativity, worked out for a constant speed, also shows time dilation in accelerating frames (eg. Twin's Paradox) and Gravity is an acceleration. In general relativity, it is considered to be a difference in the passage of proper time at different positions as described by a metric tensor of spacetime.
 
  • #3
Shaw said:
Does relativity theory make a connection between gravitational time dilation, and the time dilation experienced at high velocity?

I don't think so - but I may be mistaken, as I only know GR in approximation. According to the equivalence principle, locally the observed effects from acceleration are the same as the effects from gravitation.

For example, the observations inside a rocket in deep space that is accelerating at a proper acceleration equal to g and with two clocks at different "heights", should be the same as in rest on the surface of the Earth (assuming uniform g).
The usual example calculations do not include time dilation and length contraction effects due to velocity because they are done for a small change of velocity relative to rest.
 

What is relativity theory?

Relativity theory is a fundamental theory in physics that explains how objects move and interact in space and time. It was developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century and has been proven to accurately describe the behavior of objects at high speeds and in strong gravitational fields.

What is time dilation?

Time dilation is a phenomenon predicted by relativity theory where time passes at different rates for objects moving at different speeds or in different gravitational fields. This means that time can appear to move slower or faster depending on the relative motion of the observer and the object being observed.

How does relativity theory connect gravitational and velocity time dilation?

Relativity theory shows that time dilation is caused by the curvature of space-time, which is affected by both velocity and gravitational fields. As an object moves faster, its velocity increases and causes a greater curvature of space-time, resulting in time moving slower for that object. Similarly, in strong gravitational fields, the curvature of space-time is greater, causing time to move slower.

What is the significance of relativity theory?

Relativity theory has had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe and has been crucial in the development of modern physics. It has been confirmed through numerous experiments and has led to developments such as the theory of black holes, the concept of space-time, and the famous equation E=mc².

Can relativity theory be tested?

Yes, relativity theory has been tested and confirmed through numerous experiments and observations. The most famous of these is the confirmation of the bending of light by the sun during a solar eclipse, which was predicted by relativity theory. Additionally, the behavior of particles in accelerators and the accuracy of GPS systems also provide evidence for the validity of relativity theory.

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