A few questions on Space, Time, and GR

I am hungry for knowledge, and nothing interests me more then the cosmos and quantum theory, however I am having some trouble grasping a few concepts. I'm hoping someone with a good understanding of the topics listed above can explain it in a way that I, a semi-lamen, can comprehend.First, what exactly is space? I've been under the impression that space is simply the absence of matter or energy, but I've heard and read many articles that have stated something along the lines of "...bending of spacetime...". If space is simply nothing, as I have assumed, then how can it be "bent"?Also, am I correct in my understanding that Time is simply the measurement of...well for lack of a better word..."time" its take for an object in space to move from point a to point b? Other then that I see no real existence of time other then as a human perception.While reading up on General Relativity I have noticed lots of anologies concerning a person travelling to a destination at, or near, the speed of light and returning after an alloted time. A time which is relativley different for the traveller and those here on earth. What happens at the speed of light that causes time to past slower for the traveller? My rationalization keeps telling me that someone leaving earth at the speed of light, and travels for 5 years, then returns at the same speed would arrive back in 10 years for both the traveller an earth. Maybe the Travellar would feel a little motion sick, and need a good shower, but other than that I can't grasp how time could possibly pass slower for him/her.Hopefully someone out there can understand my ramblings and put an explanation in terms I can understand. If you believe you can, please do. I really wish to better understand these "basic" comsmotological concepts.Thanks,

Welcome to EvC State of Mind,Glad you decided to add to our diversity. We have a wide variety of forums for your debating pleasure, but I warn you it can become habit forming.We prefer that new members participate in existing threads and get some constructive posting under their belt before originating a new topic. Since there are a few threads still open in the Science Forum where you can participate and ask your questions, I'm not inclined to promote this topic. What's the Fabric of space made out of?
What is Time and Space
General Relativity Question
General RelativityI will close this thread in a few days once you have had a chance to reply.In the purple signature box below, you'll find some links that will help make your journey here pleasant.Pay particular attention to our Forum Guidelines and all will go well.Again welcome and happy debating.

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Usually, in a well-conducted debate, speakers are either emotionally uncommitted or can preserve sufficient detachment to maintain a coolly academic approach.-- Encylopedia Brittanica, on debate

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Topic not promoted since there are similar topics already open.