Moderate

When an observer moves with velocity of light, relative to a timing device at rest, he would notice:

Correct answer: B. Improper time

  • A. Absolute time
  • B. Improper time
  • C. Infinite time
  • D. Proper time

Explanation

According to special relativity, we observe that, with regards to the timing device at rest, the observer, in motion, would experience a different flow of time which cannot be measured until and unless we have the timing device, at the same speed as the observer. The differences in motion unable time to be measured accurately hence the measured time would be referred to as 'Improper Time'.'Absolute time', on the other hand, exists independently of any perceiver and progresses at a consistent pace throughout the universe. It can only be understood, mathematically.'Infinite time' has no limits or boundaries in time, space, extent, or magnitude. However, since we use light as the reference for time in this case, it doesn't necessarily means that time stops, when a person moves at the speed of light. Time would still be passing, with respect to a different, much faster reference.Lastly, 'Proper time' is the time, measured by a clock, that has the same motion as the observer, however, this is not the case here since the measuring device is at rest whereas the object/subject moves with the speed of light.

Last updated

About Dawn of Modern Physics

Classical physics cannot explain blackbody radiation and related observations, leading to Planck’s quantum theory, in which energy is emitted or absorbed in discrete packets. Photons provide the particle model of light, with energy and momentum linked to frequency and wavelength, including the photoelectric effect and its threshold frequency.

Practise Dawn of Modern Physics

739 free Dawn of Modern Physics MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 13 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

Related questions