Unbreakable pole moved in an infinite vacuum

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    Infinite Pole Vacuum
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The discussion centers on the theoretical implications of moving an unbreakable pole, 240,000,000 meters long, in an infinite vacuum. When one end of the pole is moved 1 meter over 0.9 seconds, the other end does not move immediately due to the limitations imposed by the speed of sound in the medium. This phenomenon highlights the distinction between actual movement and perception of movement, as explained in the General Relativity FAQ on PhysicsForums.

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Gargoyle
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Let's say I have an unbreakable pole. Let's also say I'm in an infinite vacuum. This pole is 240,000,000 meters in length. You are at the other end of the pole. I move the pole to the right 1 meter over the course of 0.9 seconds. Does the other end of the pole move immediately? If so, does it really move immediately or do you just perceive that it moved immediately?.
 
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Welcome to PhysicsForums, Gargoyle. This is a common question at PF. The quick answer is, the speed limit for any signal through a medium is the speed of sound for the medium used. There's a brief FAQ in the GR area that explains much better.

www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=536289
 
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