Time is one of the most puzzling concepts in science. Although we experience it as a constant flow from past to future, defining its true nature is much more complicated. Scientists approach time not just as a measure of change, but as a fundamental feature of the universe itself.

In classical physics, time was considered absolute. Isaac Newton described it as a universal clock that ticks the same for everyone, everywhere. This idea worked well for everyday experiences, but it could not explain extreme situations, such as those involving very high speeds or strong gravitational fields.

Albert Einstein revolutionized our understanding with his theory of relativity. He showed that time is not fixed but relative. A clock moving close to the speed of light or placed near a massive object will run slower compared to a clock in a weaker gravitational field. This means that time is linked to space, forming a combined framework called space-time.

Modern physics also explores time in the quantum world. Some theories suggest that at the smallest scales, time may not be continuous, and its flow could be influenced by fundamental particles and forces. While much is still unknown, scientists continue to investigate time using experiments, observations, and mathematical models.

In summary, the nature of time is not simple. From Newton’s absolute time to Einstein’s relative space-time and quantum theories, science shows us that time is flexible, dynamic, and deeply woven into the fabric of the universe. Understanding it helps us make sense of both everyday life and the cosmos.