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time and relativity

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nohorn | 20:02 Sat 22nd Nov 2008 | Science
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If time is relative; I understand that has been proven. Does that mean that all events could/have/will all happen at the same time. That's what I have been thinking about. Just wondering.
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No, that's not what relativity means.

Put basically relativity means that time travels differently for people in different circumstances.

Specifically it passes slower if you are travelling very close to the speed of light relative to a "stationary" observer (special relativity).

Or if you are in a very strong gravitational field (General Relativity)

Perhaps the best proof of this is muons. these are subatomic particles that have a short life time. They are created in our upper atmosphere as cosmic rays collide with the Earth's atmosphere. Not many should live long enough to reach the Earth's surface - But lots do - too many. The reason is that because they travel so fast time is slower for them and they live longer.
the relativity of time to space, as galileo, newton and, most notably, einstein hypothesised, is not proven, but it is extremely likely. another, more accurate theory may yet be uncovered. so, to answer your question - no, events that have happened in the past will probably not happen at the same time as will future events.

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