Einstein Showed That Time Is Relative. But … Why Is It?

The article discusses the concept of time dilation, a fundamental aspect of Einstein's theory of relativity. It explains that this mind-bending phenomenon arises from the assumption that the speed of light is constant for all observers, regardless of their relative motion. The article highlights that this seemingly innocuous assumption has profound implications, leading to the realization that time is not an absolute, universal quantity, but rather a relative concept that varies depending on the observer's frame of reference. This counter-intuitive idea challenges our everyday understanding of time and has been experimentally verified through various experiments, including the famous "twin paradox." The article delves into the underlying principles and equations that govern time dilation, emphasizing the crucial role played by the speed of light in shaping our perception of time. It suggests that this concept not only has profound implications for our understanding of the physical world but also raises intriguing questions about the nature of time and its relationship to the fundamental laws of the universe.