Ask your own question, for FREE!
MIT 8.01 Physics I Classical Mechanics, Fall 1999 17 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

what is time dilation?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Hi there. That is a wonderful question. Time dilation arises out of Einstein's (and a few other great physicists) equations associated with special relativity. In essence, if the speed of light remains constant, then something else must be happening within V=d/t. Indeed, Einstein was able to show that space, and time, change their structure to keep V constant. Thus, time dilation is a change in the denominator of the equation that allows for a constant speed of light. In the context of GR, Einstein showed that time dilation is a direct effect of acceleration. Yet, the tensor descriptions he used, are probably over ridiculous for explaining the pedagogy of the concept. Just know this, as you approach a gravitational field, time slows down relative to someone farther away from that field. I hope that helps a bit.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

A moving clock runs slower than a stationary one is a consequence of special relativity.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

but a clock has a mechanism to move according to its motion of its clock hand, so how would it move slow when it is in motion..... how could it fails its mechanism

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Special Relativity - a moving clock run slower. General Relativity - a clock will run slower in a strong gravitational field. Great speed and Stronger gravitational field both slow down clocks.

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!