Time dilation

Time dilation is a consequence of Albert Einstein's theories of relativity.

Related Topics:
Albert Einstein - Theories of relativity

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This effect occurs when an observer in one frame of reference (defined by velocity or gravitational potential) finds that a clock measuring proper time in another frame of reference is ticking at a different rate with respect to the proper time defined by his own clock.

Related Topics:
Clock - Proper time

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• In special relativity, this occurs for clocks which are moving with respect to an inertial observer.
• In general relativity this occurs for clocks at lower potentials in a gravitational field, and is called gravitational time dilation.

This effect is commonly thought of as being time slowing down for the time dilated clock. This is not the case. Locally, one's proper time always passes at the same rate. Instead what is slowed down is how that proper time passage is perceived by another observer.

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Time dilation: Temporal coordinate systems and clock synchronization ►