Universal Journal of Physics and Application Vol. 6(2), pp. 221 - 236
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TIME DILATION AND LENGTH CONTRACTION SHOWN IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL SPACE-TIME FRAMES

AUTHOR(S) INFORMATION: Chen T. and Chen Z.

ABSTRACT

In classical Newtonian physics, space and time are absolute quantities. Hence, space and time can be treated independently and discussed separately. With his theory of relativity, Einstein proved that space and time are dependent and must not be treated separately. To maintain this interdependency and inseparability of space and time, a three-dimensional space-time frame, where time is embedded into a spatial coordinate system, has been conceptualized. Utilizing this new type of frame, the concepts of time dilation and length contraction can easily be visualized with intuitive, geometric graphs. The proposed three-dimensional space-time frame is an alternate mathematical frame that can be used to describe the motion of objects. It may also prove to be a useful tool in facilitating the understanding of Special Relativity and providing additional insights into space and time.