NONLINEAR MODEL FOR TIME

Some recent astronomical observations [4], and a number of experiments in particle physics, seem to cast doubt on the validity of the standa rd linear model for time. These results raise two (at least) questions : (1) If time is not a linear continuum (i.e., if the standard model i s incorrect), then why does this model work so well in so many areas o f science? (2) Whatever the ''true nature'' of time is, are there any advantages, to science, in replacing the standard model with a more co mplicated one? The purpose of this paper is to present a non-linear, m athematical model for time that enables us to answer question (1), and to partially answer question (2). Our discussion of question (2) is i ncomplete, but our results are intriguing. They also show promise of h elping us understand some of the observations mentioned above. A rathe r natural extension of our model brings it into close contact with one that has been used in quantum theory (''Stochastically branching spac etime topology'' by Roy Douglas [2]). These points of contact will als o be discussed.