Alexander Ohnemus

Thank you for initiating this compelling discussion on the nature of time. The assertion that "Time may be relative but NOT subjective" strikes at the heart of both theoretical physics and the philosophy of science.

Time, as understood through Einstein's theory of relativity, is indeed relative. The passage of time can vary based on the relative speed of observers or the strength of gravitational fields, as elegantly demonstrated by the twin paradox and time dilation experiments with atomic clocks in varying gravitational potentials. This scientific understanding underscores that time is an objective phenomenon governed by the laws of physics.

Conversely, the subjective experience of time is profoundly different. Psychological and neurological studies have shown that our perception of time can be influenced by a myriad of factors, such as emotions, attention, and even cultural background. While our minds might perceive time differently, this perception does not alter the objective passage of time.

The publication "Critical Rationalist Physics" (source: ResearchGate link) provides a comprehensive analysis of time from a critical rationalist perspective. It argues convincingly that while our subjective experiences of time can vary, the physical properties of time remain constant and measurable. This aligns with the foundational principles of physics where empirical evidence and reproducibility are key.

I appreciate the thoughtful contributions made by fellow researchers in this discussion. For instance, the point raised about time dilation and its experimental confirmations through GPS satellite synchronization is a perfect example of how relativity manifests in our daily technology. This not only validates Einstein's theories but also bridges the gap between theoretical physics and practical applications.

On a deeper philosophical level, this discussion invites us to consider the nature of reality itself. The dichotomy between the objective measurement of time and our subjective experience of it parallels other philosophical debates about the nature of consciousness and reality. It challenges us to refine our understanding and develop a more integrated view that encompasses both the empirical and the experiential.

In conclusion, while our subjective experience of time can be influenced by numerous factors, the principles of time as described by relativity are objective and scientifically verifiable. This distinction is not only crucial for advancing our scientific understanding but also enriches our philosophical inquiries.

Best regards,

Sandeep Jaiswal

Relative = subjective for time and any coordinate in fact. Using two words that mean the same thing just doesn't make sense.

In the non-relativistic approximation time is neither relative, nor is it subjective.

Time is Relative but Not Subjective

This can be explained from a Physics point of view. Einstein's theory of relativity can be used in conjunction with some philosophical perspectives on objectivity and subjectivity.

Einstein's Theory of Relativity

Einstein's special theory of relativity states that time is relative (not absolute) because it can vary depending on the relative motion between observers and events. For instance, time dilates, or slows down, for objects moving at speeds close to the speed of light compared to those at rest or moving at speeds far less than that of light.

Einstein's general theory of relativity states that time is also influenced by gravity. Time passes more slowly in stronger gravitational fields compared to weaker ones. This is known as gravitational time dilation.

These aspects of relativity show that time is not absolute but depends on the relative state of motion and position of a body in a gravitational field.

Objectivity of Time

Despite time being relative, it can be measured using objective standards such as atomic clocks. These measurements provide consistent, reproducible results that can be agreed upon by different observers, given their relative frames of reference.

The universe is governed by physical Laws, with equations governing time dilation and gravitational time dilation being objective and universally applicable. They are not subject to anyone’s personal feelings, opinions, or individual perceptions.

Apparent subjectivity time

Psychological phenomena may drive people to perceive time subjectively e.g. as seeming to fly by or drag on, this personal experience does not alter the objective measurements of time. Even though different observers might measure different times due to relative motion or gravitational effects, the methodology and principles behind these measurements are consistent and objective.

Alexander Ohnemus Joseph Hlongwane Stam Nicolis Sandeep Jaiswal

My 2 cents:

Time is relative, it is not an absolute universal constant. The passage of time is not the same for all observers but depends on factors like:

- Velocity: The faster you move relative to another observer, the slower time passes for you compared to that observer (time dilation).

- Gravity: The stronger the gravitational field, the slower time passes (gravitational time dilation). Clocks run slower in stronger gravity.

So time is not an absolute, fixed quantity - it changes based on the observer's motion and location, a fact that is proven by experiments and observations.

Even though different observers may measure different passage of time, there are objective, physical laws that govern these time-related effects. We can precisely predict how much time will slow down given specific velocities or gravitational fields.

Even though our perceptions of time vary based on our reference frame, it is a real, measurable phenomenon, not just a subjective mental construct.

Best Regards,

Philosophical issues are, by definition, subjective, i.e. depend on the observer who makes them. Another word that has the same meaning is ``relative''.

What does NOT depend on the observer is the existence of a time-like coordinate.

Mohammad Imam

Thank you for your insightful comment. I agree with your points on the relativity of time and its dependence on factors like velocity and gravity. The concept of time dilation due to relative velocity and gravitational fields is indeed a fundamental aspect of modern physics, as demonstrated by both theory and experiments.

I also appreciate your emphasis on the objective nature of these effects, despite their dependence on the observer's frame of reference. The ability to predict and measure these phenomena accurately reinforces their physical reality.

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on how advancements in technology and experimental methods might continue to refine our understanding of time dilation. Do you see any emerging trends or challenges in this area?

Best regards,

Sandeep Jaiswal

Sandeep Jaiswal Saheb,

Understanding of time dilation in the coming decades includes:

1. Optical lattice clocks:

- These ultra-precise atomic clocks use the narrow transition frequencies of atoms trapped in an optical lattice to achieve record-breaking accuracy and stability.

- Advancements in optical lattice clock technology could enable even more precise measurements of time dilation effect in terrestrial and space-based experiments.

2. Atom interferometry:

- Atom interferometers use the wave-like properties of atoms to create highly sensitive devices that can measure effects like gravitational time dilation with remarkable precision.

- Continued development of atom interferometry techniques and instruments could provide new avenues for testing time dilation in diverse environments.

3. Space-based experiments

...

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Best regards,

Mohammad Imam

Dear Mohammad Imam Saheb,

Thank you for your comprehensive response. Your points on optical lattice clocks, atom interferometry, and space-based experiments are indeed exciting.

The precision of optical lattice clocks could revolutionize fundamental physics and practical technologies. How do you see their role in refining global time standards and advancing navigation systems?

The sensitivity of atom interferometers to gravitational time dilation is fascinating. What are the most promising experimental setups, and how might they be used in space missions or underground labs to reveal new insights?

Space-based experiments offer unique opportunities to observe time dilation effects. What specific outcomes do you anticipate from upcoming missions by the European Space Agency or NASA? How can international collaboration enhance these efforts?

These advancements not only promise scientific breakthroughs but also raise questions about the nature of time. As precision improves, could we uncover anomalies that challenge our current theories? How might these technologies intersect with fields like quantum computing and gravitational wave detection?

I invite our ResearchGate community to share insights on these technologies. What challenges do you foresee, and how might we overcome them? Are there emerging trends or recent findings that particularly excite you?

Looking forward to an engaging discussion.

Best regards,

Sandeep Jaiswal

Sandeep Jaiswal Ji,

Please do not underestimate ISRO. Generally, I do not share but I was a Rocket Scientist at ISRO. Attosecond based experiment will add new flavor.

Let me try to respond in poetic form.

Your query:

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on how advancements in technology and experimental methods might continue to refine our understanding of time dilation. Do you see any emerging trends or challenges in this area?

Response:

Here is a poem exploring how advancements in technology and experimental methods might continue to refine our understanding of time dilation:

Unveiling Time's Elusive Dance

As science marches forth, unbowed,

Machines of precision, ever more proud,

Unravel the mysteries that time doth enfold,

Revealing secrets long left untold.

Atomic clocks, with trembling ticks,

Measure moments, as space-time complexly mix,

Exposing the truths that Einstein foresaw,

Of gravity's sway, defying time's law.

Experiments reach, to realms of extremes,

Black holes and pulsars, celestial themes,

Where time bends and warps, before our very eyes,

Shattering notions, that we once surmised.

Yet, challenges linger, in the depths unseen,

Where physics' foundations, may not be as they seem,

New phenomena, yet to be found,

Reshaping the canvas, that time doth bound.

As technology soars, and insight takes flight,

We glimpse time's dance, in ever-changing light,

Unraveling mysteries, one by one,

Toward a future, where time's secrets are won.

In this cosmic ballet, we seek to understand,

The ebb and flow, of time's elusive hand,

Empowered by tools, ever more precise,

Unveiling time's secrets, in ways once undevised.

and in Hindi:

यंत्रों के उन्नयन और प्रायोगिक विधियों में प्रगति के साथ, समय विस्तारण की हमारी समझ को किस प्रकार और अधिक परिष्कृत किया जा सकता है? क्या इस क्षेत्र में कोई उभरते प्रवृत्ति या चुनौतियाँ दिखाई दे रही हैं? यहाँ है एक कविता जो इन प्रश्नों पर हिंदी में विचार व्यक्त करती है:

कालचक्र के रहस्यों का उद्घाटन

जैसे-जैसे विज्ञान आगे बढ़ता है,

तकनीक में परिवर्तन आता है।

समय विस्तारण की आंखें खुलती हैं,

रहस्य प्रकट होते, तथ्य जुलते हैं।

परमाणु घड़ियों के कंपन-धीर,

मापते हैं क्षण, जिनमें रुप धीर।

आइंस्टीन के सिद्धांतों को साबित करते,

गुरुत्वाकर्षण के प्रभाव को प्रकट करते।

प्रयोगों ने अंतरिक्ष तक पहुंचा,

ब्लैक होल और पल्सर का सच्चा।

जहां समय बदलता, रूप बदलता,

हमारे सिद्धांत पूर्णतः नहीं मिलता।

चुनौतियाँ विद्यमान, अज्ञात में छुपी,

क्या होगा जब नई क्षमता जुटी?

क्या मूलभूत भौतिकी बदल जाएगी?

समय के नए रहस्य क्या खोल जाएंगे?

तकनीक के उत्थान के साथ,

समय की नृत्य-लीला का ज्ञान आता है।

एक-एक रहस्य खोल कर,

समय के रंग-रूप का सच्चा चमत्कार।

Good luck! partial credit ai