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Other literature type . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Other literature type . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Simultaneity in the Foundations of Special Relativity

Authors: Clyde, Christopher;

Simultaneity in the Foundations of Special Relativity

Abstract

Einstein’s synchronization condition is commonly introduced as a conventional procedure for defining simultaneity using light signals, from which the relativity of simultaneity is subsequently derived. This paper examines the logical role played by this condition at the foundations of special relativity, independently of later coordinate constructions. It is shown that the synchronization criterion implicitly presupposes a physically meaningful symmetry in light propagation in order for simultaneity to be well-defined at all, rather than merely operationally stipulated. This symmetry is later treated as a consequence of the theory, creating a dependency inversion between premises and results. The analysis identifies an equivocation between operational and physical notions of simultaneity that remains unresolved within the standard formulation. Implications for the interpretation of light-speed invariance and frame equivalence are discussed, without proposing experimentalmodification of special relativity.

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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