PHY100H:  The Magic of Physics

In 1915 Einstein presented a quartet of papers that revolutionized our understanding of gravity. He commented: “Hardly anyone who has truly understood this theory will be able to resist being captivated by its magic.” The General Theory of Relativity is not the only theory of physics that is magical, and Einstein was not physics’ only magician. We uncover the wonders of the classical and the quantum world courtesy of Galileo, Newton, Maxwell, Einstein, Heisenberg and others. Topics include planetary motion, chaos, the nature of light, time travel, black holes, matter waves, Schrödinger’s cat, and quarks. No mathematics is required, and any necessary elementary classical physics is reviewed.

The course is designed especially for non-scientists who want to learn how physicists are slowly unravelling the secrets of the universe. No prior knowledge of physics or mathematics is required.Any necessary elementary classical physics will be reviewed. There are two lectures and one tutorial per week. During the tutorials, the small group atmosphere will give students the opportunity to supplement the course material and pursue topics of special interest.