Physikalische Mathematik

Speakable and Unspeakable in Special Relativity: the Ageing of the Twins in the Paradox

Abstract

Guerra V* and Abreu RD

In previous papers, we have presented a general formulation of special relativity, based on a weaker statement of the postulates. In this work, the paradigmatic example of the twin paradox is discussed in detail. Within the present formulation of special relativity, a “non-paradoxical” interpretation of the asymmetric ageing of the twins emerges. It is based exclusively on the rhythms of the clocks, which are not related by the standard textbook expressions and shall not be confused with clock time readings. Moreover, the current approach exposes the irrelevance of the acceleration of the returning twin in the discussion of the paradox.