How do we know the universe is 13.8 billion years old? How do we know the speed of light is 299,792,458 meters per second? Studying how physicists make discoveries is the best way to understand key developments in modern physics—from quantum mechanics, to the theory of relativity, to cosmology.
In The Evidence for Modern Physics, noted particle physicist Dr. Don Lincoln of Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory covers more than a century of progress in physics, describing exactly how scientists reach the conclusions they do. He starts with the atom, digging deep into its complex structure, which led to the theory of quantum mechanics. He also explores Einstein's special and general theories of relativity, which overturned conceptions of time and space, especially in the realm of the super-fast and ultra-massive.
Quantum theory and relativity are notoriously counterintuitive, but Dr. Lincoln shows why their conclusions must be true. He does the same for the Big Bang, black holes, the accelerating universe, and other big ideas in cosmology, showing that scientists will follow the data wherever it leads, no matter how improbable the conclusions.Designed for nonscientists, the course is an intellectual rollercoaster ride that will amaze and enlighten you. As Dr. Lincoln says, "You must wonder how we can say with such certainty that the world of the super-fast and ultra-small follow such bizarre rules. Well, you're in luck, because that's exactly what this course is about."
