The twin paradox in compact spaces
General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology
2009-11-07 v1 Astrophysics
Mathematical Physics
math.MP
Abstract
Twins travelling at constant relative velocity will each see the other's time dilate leading to the apparent paradox that each twin believes the other ages more slowly. In a finite space, the twins can both be on inertial, periodic orbits so that they have the opportunity to compare their ages when their paths cross. As we show, they will agree on their respective ages and avoid the paradox. The resolution relies on the selection of a preferred frame singled out by the topology of the space.
Keywords
Cite
@article{arxiv.gr-qc/0101014,
title = {The twin paradox in compact spaces},
author = {John D. Barrow and Janna Levin},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:gr-qc/0101014},
year = {2009}
}
Comments
to be published in PRA, 3 pages