A Meander Through the Field of Modern Physics
Thursdays, January 29, February 5, 12, and 19 (four sessions), 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Location: Terraces of Los Gatos, Fee: $60
| When |
Jan 29, 2009 10:00 AM
to Feb 19, 2009 12:00 PM |
|---|
Recommended text: The Fabric of the Cosmos by Brian Greene, available in paperback and in public libraries.
We've come a long way from thinking that the earth is at the center of the universe and we now know that the world is far different from what it appears to be according to our senses. In this brief overview, we'll examine some of the key paradigms and discoveries of modern physics that form our current model of the physical world and define the limits of our ability to understand it. We'll look at Newtonian dynamics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, relativity and cosmology to see how our understanding of nature has evolved over the last 150 years. We'll also look at the big questions that physicists are working on today.
Prerequisites: None, other than curiosity about the universe. Some technical aptitude will be helpful. In lieu of that bring an ability to encounter and chew on some bizarre new ideas and concepts.
Dr. John Trudeau holds graduate degrees in both Physics and Psychology. He has done research in quantum electronics, molecular dynamics and nuclear medicine applications in psychology (functional brain imaging). He has also worked in computer systems engineering and has done seminars and technical training for Apple computer, Hewlett-Packard and other companies in Silicon Valley. He has a very strong interest in the ontologic and epistemologic questions posed by modern physics.
