Time & Universe: Relative Meaning & Age

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of time's relativity and its implications for the age of the universe, specifically the statement that the universe is approximately 13.75 billion years old. Participants explore the relationship between time measurement and reference frames, particularly in relation to the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the meaning of the universe's age in the context of time being relative.
  • One participant proposes that the universe's age can be measured from a clock on Earth, suggesting that a clock at rest with respect to the CMB would run slightly faster, estimating a difference of about 10 years.
  • Another participant draws a parallel between the universe's age and the age of a car, implying that the age is a relative measure.
  • A participant questions whether there exists an absolute space-time frame, specifically in relation to the CMB, and presents a calculation that suggests a different measure of time.
  • There is a suggestion that while there may not be an absolute frame, there is a specific frame that is at rest with respect to the CMB.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of time relativity for the universe's age, with no consensus reached on whether an absolute frame exists or how to interpret the measurements of time.

Contextual Notes

Participants' claims depend on specific assumptions about reference frames and the nature of time, which remain unresolved in the discussion.

ubcstudent
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If time is relative then what does it mean when they say the universe is 13.75 billion year old?
 
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I believe the universe is 13.7 billion years old as per a clock on Earth. A clock at rest with respect to the CMB and away from any major gravitational sources would be SLIGHTLY faster. About 10 years faster by my estimate.
 
ubcstudent said:
If time is relative then what does it mean when they say the universe is 13.75 billion year old?

Same as when we say "my car is 10 years old".
 
Drakkith, are you suggesting, that there is absolute space-time FOR? More or less equal to CMB?
(1 - sqrt(1 - (370/300000)^2)))*13.7*10^9
10419 years according to me.
 
Last edited:
An absolute frame? No. But there is a frame that is at rest with respect to the CMB.
 

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