+20 votes
in Time physics by
edited by

Your answer

Your name to display (optional):
Privacy: Your email address will only be used for sending these notifications.
+20 votes
by

Time, as we perceive it, is a continuous and linear progression. It doesn't move in discrete increments like a quantized system. In our everyday experience, time appears to flow smoothly and continuously. We measure time using various units such as seconds, minutes, hours, and so on, but these divisions are arbitrary human constructs for the sake of convenience and standardization.

In the realm of physics, time is often treated as a continuous variable. In classical physics, time is assumed to be infinitely divisible, meaning there is no inherent resolution or smallest increment of time. This continuous model of time simplifies many mathematical and physical calculations.

However, in certain areas of physics, such as quantum mechanics and some theories of quantum gravity, the concept of discrete or quantized time has been explored. Some theories propose that at extremely small scales or under specific conditions, time could be discrete or have a fundamental granularity. For instance, in loop quantum gravity, some models suggest that space and time could be fundamentally granular, with a smallest unit known as the Planck time, which is approximately 5.39 × 10^(-44) seconds. However, it's important to note that these theories are highly speculative and still under active research and debate.

In summary, in our everyday experience and in classical physics, time is considered a continuous variable without a specific resolution or smallest increment. However, in certain speculative theories of physics, the possibility of discrete or quantized time at extremely small scales has been explored.

Welcome to Physicsgurus Q&A, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of the community.
...