Relativistic Time Dilation
The phenomenon where time passes slower for a clock in relative motion compared to a stationary observer's reference clock.
Governing formula
Δt = γ Δt₀ = Δt₀ / √(1 - v²/c²)
SI unit
Seconds (Time Interval)
In depth
A direct kinematic consequence of the constancy of the speed of light c. Verified to high precision using atomic clocks on high-speed jets and particle accelerators.
Examples in the real world
Relativistic atmospheric muons traveling at 0.998c living ~15 times longer before decaying, reaching Earth's surface detectors.