How does PHP handle UNIX timestamps and what is the significance of the 01.01.1970 start date in UNIX time?

PHP handles UNIX timestamps by using the time() function to retrieve the current UNIX timestamp, which represents the number of seconds that have elapsed since January 1, 1970. This start date is significant because it serves as the "epoch" or reference point for UNIX time, allowing for consistent time calculations across different systems and platforms.

// Get the current UNIX timestamp
$timestamp = time();
echo $timestamp;