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Everyone has heard about Einstein and relativity theory. The greater revolution in 20th-century physics, however, is quantum theory. It provides the framework for all microscopic physics. But mere probabilities have replaced the definite predictions of classical physics, and the theory has undermined the physicist's conception of reality. Lecture demonstrations and plausible reasoning will lead us to the structure of quantum theory. We will see how classical determinism is replaced by probabilities and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Classical reality, independent of the observer, will dissolve into something tenuous and conditional. Throughout, the emphasis will be on principles and philosophical implications, not on problem solving. Mathematics beyond the level presupposed will be handled by computer graphics, both in class and in the homework (programs will be provided).
COURSE FORMAT: Discussion Lecture
Level: UG Credit: 1.00 Gen Ed Area & Dept: NSM PHYS
Prerequisites: MATH117 or MATH121
Last Updated on MAR-10-1997
Diffraction pattern caused by electrons passing through a single slit.
Cutnell, John D. and Kenneth W. Johnson, PHYSICS. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1989
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