The Twin Paradox Revisited and Reformulated-On the Possibility of Detecting Absolute Motion
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Date
2008-09-06
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Publisher
arXiv
Abstract
The famous twin paradox of the Special Theory of Relativity by Einstein
(1905) is revisited and revised. This paradox is not a paradox in the true sense of a paradox
but a reflection of a misunderstanding of the problem and the Principle of Relativity. The
currently accepted solution to this takes into account the accelerations and deceleration
of the traveling twin thus introducing an asymmetry that solves the paradox. We argue
here that, with the acceleration and deceleration neglected, the problem is asymmetric
hence leading to the same conclusion that the traveling twin will age less than the stay at
home. We introduce a symmetric twin paradox whose solution can not be found within the
currently accepted provinces of the STR if one adopts the currently accepted philosophy
of the STR namely that it is impossible for an inertial observer to determine their state of
motion. To resolve this, we present (in our modest view) a simple and convincing argument
that leads us to conclude that it must be possible for an inertial observer to determine their
own state of motion. With this, we are able to solve the symmetric twin paradox. The fact
that it is possible for an inertial observer to determine their state of motion – brings us back
to the long rejected idea of an all pervading and permeating medium – the Aether, namely
the Lorentz luminiferous Aether. An experiment capable of validating or invalidating this
claim is suggested.
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Keywords
Absolute Motion, Principle of Relativity Relative Motion, Aether, Symmetry, Asymmetry
Citation
Nyambuy, G.G. and Ngobeni, M.D.(2008).The Twin Paradox Revisited and Reformulated-On the Possibility of Detecting Absolute Motion.