Aging and communication in the twin paradox

TL;DR

This paper explores the twin paradox in special relativity using smooth acceleration profiles, demonstrating that continuous communication of clock times between twins is theoretically possible despite relativistic effects.

Contribution

It introduces a model with smooth velocity changes in the twin paradox, extending the standard abrupt velocity change scenario and analyzing communication feasibility.

Findings

Continuous clock communication is theoretically possible during acceleration.

Smooth velocity profiles generalize the standard abrupt change case.

Mutual perception of clock times is analyzed in accelerating frames.

Abstract

The twin paradox of the special theory of relativity has given rise to a large body of literature discussing its implications. In its standard form, the traveler changes velocity only at the destination of the trip, so that he appears to perceive an improbably instantaneous and non-continuous change in age of the stationary twin. In this work, a smooth velocity/acceleration profile is used that allows the abrupt velocity-change case as a limit. All gravitational effects are ignored in this treatment. Aside from mutual perception of simultaneous clock times in an accelerating frame, constant communication of clock times between the twins by means of (digital) light signals is shown to be possible, in principle if not in practice.