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mysearch
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I am trying to resolve a number of questions concerning the scope of time dilation within the confines of special relativity, i.e. flat spacetime. For example, if I simply state that 2 inertial frames of reference pass each other with a relative and constant velocity [v], it is my understanding that special relativity cannot give precedence to either one of these inertial frames. As such, either could claim that time in the other frame ticks slower and even if we stopped these 2 systems, to compare time, we have not established any frame of reference by which to resolve the relative ticking of their respective clocks.
So can we consider similar example in which net time can be compared?
The example I was considering is essentially an extension of the twin paradox, which I know this forum has addressed countless times, so let me make it clear that I am not questioning the accepted position on this issue. However, the extension involves both twins going on an identical journey relative to planet Earth, which we might simply reference as [A]. Twin-1 travels a path ABCA, while twin-2 travels a reverse path ACBA. As such, both twins experience identical acceleration and velocity such that ABCA represents the mirror image of ACBA. However, as twin-1 goes from B to C and twin-2 goes from C to D, they pass each other, appearing as 2 inertial frames of reference with a combined relative velocity [v], such that the situation might appear as initially described above.
So how does time dilation affect the twins in this system?
Based on the resolution of the normal twin paradox, where one twin remains on Earth, the Earth is resolved as the inertial frame of reference from which the second twin accelerates away and returns. So, by the same argument, I am presuming that both twins in this extended example will age more slowly than a person remaining on Earth. However, unlike the initial description, when this set of twins both return to Earth, they have a common frame of reference against which they can compare the net rate of time experienced and their age.
So what is their relative age to each other?
As far as I can see, time dilation based on the Lorentz transforms would suggest that they must be the same age, as the reversing of acceleration and velocity does not seem to affect the outcome of the transforms. However, would appreciate any further in-sights before raising anymore issues. Thanks
So can we consider similar example in which net time can be compared?
The example I was considering is essentially an extension of the twin paradox, which I know this forum has addressed countless times, so let me make it clear that I am not questioning the accepted position on this issue. However, the extension involves both twins going on an identical journey relative to planet Earth, which we might simply reference as [A]. Twin-1 travels a path ABCA, while twin-2 travels a reverse path ACBA. As such, both twins experience identical acceleration and velocity such that ABCA represents the mirror image of ACBA. However, as twin-1 goes from B to C and twin-2 goes from C to D, they pass each other, appearing as 2 inertial frames of reference with a combined relative velocity [v], such that the situation might appear as initially described above.
So how does time dilation affect the twins in this system?
Based on the resolution of the normal twin paradox, where one twin remains on Earth, the Earth is resolved as the inertial frame of reference from which the second twin accelerates away and returns. So, by the same argument, I am presuming that both twins in this extended example will age more slowly than a person remaining on Earth. However, unlike the initial description, when this set of twins both return to Earth, they have a common frame of reference against which they can compare the net rate of time experienced and their age.
So what is their relative age to each other?
As far as I can see, time dilation based on the Lorentz transforms would suggest that they must be the same age, as the reversing of acceleration and velocity does not seem to affect the outcome of the transforms. However, would appreciate any further in-sights before raising anymore issues. Thanks