How does the 4 Dimensions of Space-Time work?

Answer 1

Well, that is a tricky question that I am not sure anyone can answer. You see the human mind is wired to think of time differently. Unlike the other 3 dimensions with which we are familiar, Time is somewhat more fluid.

Basically though, there are three spatial dimensions. Within these dimensionan object can exist. This object can be assigned a set of coordinates that describe its place in these dimensions, like an address, or latitude and longitude. You could also describe how high or low this object is... is it on the ground, in a tree 10 feet up, is it on the 12th story of building?

But objects are never permanent. Everything is moving. Because of this we add in a 4th coordinate... time. Think about it, if you told someone to meet you at the corner of main and state street, but didn't tell them the time to meet you... they wouldn't be able to meet you there without waiting from now until then for every minute that passes between now and when you get there.

When you left out that coordinate, you didn't fully describe space time, and as such another person won't know how to get to that coordinate. Much as if you said meet me on main street, at 3 PM, but don't give a place along main street. Again you have left out a coordinate. If you are meeting in a building with many floors, you also have to say which floor you are on....

I hope that helps you understand it a little better, but I wouldn't worry about it if you can't visualize it like you can three dimensions. I don't think any of us can.


Tiger Striped Dog MD

Answer 2

They don't. Hence all the problems in the world. We're doomed!