What is the 4th Dimension - 3D World + Time or 4 Axis?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of the fourth dimension, specifically whether it is understood as the three-dimensional world plus time or as an additional spatial axis. The scope includes theoretical interpretations and mathematical perspectives.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the fourth dimension is simply the three-dimensional world plus time.
  • Others argue that the fourth dimension can be considered as a new spatial axis, independent of time.
  • A participant questions the relationship between 4D solids and time, seeking clarification on whether they are related.
  • Another participant asserts that 4D objects exist in four spatial dimensions and one time dimension, emphasizing that the fourth spatial dimension is unrelated to time.
  • A later reply highlights the distinction between physics (3 spatial dimensions plus time) and mathematics (where dimensions can be any integer).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of the fourth dimension, with no consensus reached on whether it is primarily a temporal or spatial concept.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying interpretations based on disciplinary perspectives, with implications for definitions of dimensions remaining unresolved.

nirky
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Some people say that it's the 3D world we live in + time but others say that it's 4 dimensional as in it as new axis. Which one is true?
 
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russ_watters said:
Time.
So if we talk about 4D solids,does that mean they are related to time...?
 
No, when we talk about 4D objects, we mean that they exist in 4 spatial dimensions and one time dimension. The 4th spatial dimension has no relation to the time dimension.
 
Drakkith said:
No, when we talk about 4D objects, we mean that they exist in 4 spatial dimensions and one time dimension. The 4th spatial dimension has no relation to the time dimension.
Thanks Darkkith I understand now.
 
The main point is whether you are looking at physics (3 space + time) or math (n space, where n is any integer).
 

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