Page:Benton 1959 The Clock Problem (Clock Paradox) in Relativity.djvu/2



Current interest in the possibilities of space flight and the prediction that atomic clocks in earth satellites may be utilized to check Einstein's theory have focused attention on the clock problem in relativity, or the so-called time-traveler paradox and its implication. General theory holds that a precise clock will run more slowly at extreme altitudes than an earthbound clock because of differences in gravitational fields. Special theory holds that rates of two clocks will vary because of relative motion between the two. Implication is that, of two observers who part company, travel with a relative speed, and rejoin one another, one will record a shorter lapse of time than the other. Thus, a time advantage will exist for the traveler on an extended voyage. The question naturally arises, Will space travel lengthen life? Some experimenters vouch that it will. Others debunk such a theory.

Einstein first introduced the clock paradox in 1905, although Michelson touched upon the subject in a report of his experiments in 1882. Since that time many thoughts on the subject have been expressed and the question posed, discussed and interpreted by many scientists and writers of popular articles.

The purpose of this bibliography is to serve, through the medium of recorded references, as a sort of debating platform for what has been said and done in an effort to prove a point one way or the other.

Periodical articles predominate, most of them in English, but some in foreign languages. A list of periodicals cited together with the abbreviations used may be found on page iii. There are a few books and three research reports. Arrangement of the references is alphabetical by author. For the benefit of those who may wish to investigate further, or for those who have only a cursory interest, annotations indicative of the contents of each item are included. Whenever abstracting publications are quoted, the source is stated. It is believed that the majority of items are available for consultation in the larger public, or research libraries.