- published: 27 Apr 2011
- views: 5583
In relativity, proper time is the elapsed time between two events as measured by a clock that passes through both events. The proper time depends not only on the events but also on the motion of the clock between the events. An accelerated clock will measure a smaller elapsed time between two events than that measured by a non-accelerated (inertial) clock between the same two events. The twin paradox is an example of this effect.
In terms of four-dimensional spacetime, proper time is analogous to arc length in three-dimensional (Euclidean) space. By convention, proper time is usually represented by the Greek letter τ (tau) to distinguish it from coordinate time represented by t or T.
By contrast, coordinate time is the time between two events as measured by a distant observer using that observer's own method of assigning a time to an event. In the special case of an inertial observer in special relativity, the time is measured using the observer's clock and the observer's definition of simultaneity.
Everything's cold now
Doesn't matter I can see
You seem you've been til now picking up on me
Everything's strange now
It really matters if you see
I'm picking my steak to go away from here
I'm just for the proper time to announce my fears
I'm thinking about a time and a day I have wiped my tears
I'm just waiting for the proper time
You seem to be so mine
I just can't wait for the time I gotta stop right here
And the party goes over
I'm stressed down this hill
Danger getting so closer
You just cannot see
Wooah Wooah
Just waiting for the proper time...
Just waiting for the proper time...
And the party goes over
I'm stressed down this hill
Danger getting so closer