Time dilation is a concept in physics that states that time can pass at different rates for different observers, depending on their relative speeds and gravitational forces.
According to Einstein's theory of relativity, time dilation occurs because time and space are interconnected and can be influenced by factors such as velocity and gravity. Essentially, the faster an object moves or the stronger the gravitational force it is subjected to, the slower time will pass for that object compared to a stationary observer.
This equation is a simplified example used to illustrate the concept of time dilation. It states that if an observer were to travel at incredibly high speeds or experience intense gravitational forces, they would experience a significant time difference compared to a stationary observer. For example, if an astronaut were to travel near the speed of light for one day, they would age the equivalent of one year compared to someone on Earth.
Time dilation is a well-established concept in physics and has been confirmed through numerous experiments and observations, such as the Hafele-Keating experiment and satellite clocks. It is also a crucial component of GPS technology, which relies on precise time measurements for accurate location calculations.
Stephen Hawking's explanation of time dilation is based on his research and theories in black hole physics. He proposed that time dilation near a black hole is so extreme that time would essentially come to a standstill at the event horizon, the point of no return. This concept is known as gravitational time dilation and is a significant aspect of Hawking's work in understanding the nature of black holes.