SPRING 2001
This information effective as of Spring 2001.
Check with instructor the first day of class for any changes.
Instructor: Bruce Rosenblum
For more info: brucero@cats.ucsc.edu
or phone: 459-2326
In Physics 2 ("The Quantum Enigma") we explore the bizarre nature of physical reality and the spooky connectedness revealed by quantum mechanics, the theory basic to all of physics and on which much of modern technology depends.
Physics 2 satisfies Q and IN requirements. It has no prerequisites. It is designed to appeal to philosophically inclined non-science majors. (But some science majors also take the course because it covers material too philosophical--and too strange and controversial--to be included in a regular physics curriculum.)
Quantum mechanics is basic to the understanding of quarks, atoms, molecules, transistors, lasers, and the Big Bang. All science is ultimately based on quantum mechanics. It is our most securely established theory. But it presents us with an enigma, a mystery related to our human existence.
Demonstrations in the laboratory, which can be "explained" only in terms of quantum mechanics, reveal aspects of physical reality and a universal connectedness--and perhaps even human consciousness--that, at first sight, seem ridiculous. On further examination they become more profoundly strange.
We start "The Quantum Enigma" with several lectures on ordinary ("classical") physics presented with an historical and philosophical emphasis. Two lectures on Einstein's Theory of Relativity then follow as psychological preparation for quantum mechanics. (Relativity is almost impossible to believe, so thinking about it is good practice for accepting "impossible" things--a skill required to appreciate the quantum enigma.) Then, after a brief introduction to standard quantum mechanics, we delve into the quantum enigma, which has been called "physics' skeleton in the closet."
There are about 29 lectures, and a weekly discussion section. There is weekly homework, a midterm, and a final exam. The title of each lecture follows with a few words of description.
Setting the Scene for Science:
Ancient Greek science, which became the science of the Renaissance. This is what Galileo's method for science overturned.
A Method for Science:
Galileo's new approach to science. It became the foundation of all modern science and technology.
Motion:
We start science (as Aristotle taught us to) with the simplest aspect of Nature, the motion of matter.
The Newtonian Synthesis:
Newton's F = Ma, the "universal equation of motion," and his law of universal gravitation. Putting the heavens and the earth together.
Our Newtonian Legacy:
The philosophical (and the psychological and social) impact of Newton's physics. It ignited the intellectual movement called "The Enlightenment."
Energy and The Electric Force:
What energy is, and the forms it can take.
The force with which we see, hear, taste, and--perhaps?--the force with which we think.
Waves:
Waves of water, sound, electric field, and--we'll eventually see--waves of matter.
Relativity I:
Einstein's postulate, the universal speed limit, E = Mc2.
Relativity II:
The slowing of time in moving systems (why you can become older than your mother).
A Logical Parable; Quantum Mechanics Overview
A story, and an overview of what's to come.
Light: Wave or Particle?
The first (gentle) exposure to the quantum enigma.
The Real Nature of Atoms:
A double entendre: what atoms are really like, and a "demonstration" that they are physically real things.
A Quantum Atom:
Bohr's early quantum description of the atom. Spectra "explained"! But a strange problem arises.
Matter: Wave or Particle?
The second (a bit less gentle) exposure to the enigma.
Schrödinger's Equation:
The new fundamental law of Nature.
The Skeleton in the Closet:
The enigma: what happened to physical reality? What's going on?!
The Uncertainty Principle and Complementarity:
The craziness has protection and organization.
Schrödinger's Cat:
The story Schrödinger told to show that the quantum mechanics he invented is actually absurd.
The Copenhagen Interpretation:
The standard defense of the "absurdity," the "official dogma," and a new philosophical stance for science.
Quantum Mechanics Applications:
Too much philosophy! Quantum mechanics is also practical--it makes money: lasers, superconductivity, transistors.
Objections to the Copenhagen Interpretation:
The Einstein-Bohr debate, Einstein's concession.
The EPR Paradox:
Einstein's demand for physical reality.
Introduction to Bell's Theorem:
What must be true in any "reasonable world."
Bell's Inequality, its Tests, and Implications:
The proof that our world is surely "unreasonable"--whether or not quantum mechanics is correct!
Alternative Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics :
Interpretations even more bizarre than Copenhagen.
Quantum mechanics and Consciousness
Every interpretation of quantum mechanics forces us to say something about consciousness--and it's always something strange.
Epilog: Where does this leave us?
Nature seems to be telling us something: something about the nature of reality, a universal connectedness, and consciousness. It's definitely there, but it's a strange something we still do not understand.
Instructor: Stan Flatté
Go to:
http://earthsci.ucsc.edu/~smf/phys6bs01.html
http://www.es.ucsc.edu/~smf/6bdescription.html (Syllabus)
http://www.es.ucsc.edu/~smf/6blecss01.html (Lecture Schedule and Reading Assignments)
http://www.es.ucsc.edu/~smf/6bhws01.html (Homework Assignments)
http://www.es.ucsc.edu/~smf (Professor's home page)