Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
8954763 | Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part B: Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics | 2018 | 5 Pages |
Abstract
Homogeneity of Euclidean space and time, spatial isotropy, principle of relativity and the existence of a finite speed limit (or its variants) are commonly believed to be the only axioms required for developing the special theory of relativity (Lorentz transformations). In this paper, however, it is pointed out that the Lorentz transformation for a boost cannot actually be derived without the explicit assumption of time isotropy (viz. time-reversal symmetry) which is logically independent of the other postulates of relativity. Postulating time isotropy also restores the symmetry between space and time in the postulates of relativity (i.e. time and space share the same symmetries then). Time isotropy also helps explain naturally one key general feature of the fundamental physical laws, viz. their time-reversal symmetry. But inertial frames are defined in influential texts as frames having space-time homogeneity and spatial isotropy only. Inclusion of time isotropy in that definition is thus suggested.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Physics and Astronomy
Physics and Astronomy (General)
Authors
Somajit Dey,