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Session One (June 20 to July 9), ages 15-17
This course is intended for students who have had exposure to physics but yearn to discover more about the modern aspects of physics. Richard Feynman said, "I think I can safely say that nobody today understands quantum physics." While many would agree with this statement in principle, there is no doubt that quantum mechanics is one of the most precise scientific theories ever developed. Its impact is felt every day; it is estimated that 30 percent of the U.S. gross national product is based on inventions based on quantum physics. It is becoming clear that quantum physics is no longer an esoteric topic to be learned in graduate school, but a necessity for many areas of research, like chemistry, communication technologies, engineering, and even biological studies. Many of the mysterious aspects of quantum mechanics have been recently explored experimentally, confirming that the quantum world is vastly different from our everyday experience. In this course we will explore the origins and development of the theory, followed by a thorough exploration of its bizarre implications in light of recent experiments. Finally, the impact and applications of quantum mechanics will be explored.
Prerequisites: Students should have completed one year of algebra and a course in mechanics and electricity and magnetism at an elementary level.
Session One (June 20 to July 16), ages 14-16. Note: This is a 4 week session
This course is an accelerated version of EPGY's distance-learning course P10A Introductory Physics I. In the span of four weeks we will cover mechanics, mechanics of solids and fluids, and wave motion. Lectures interspersed with direct tutorial assistance will be the primary mode of instruction. This course will provide intensive instruction on problem solving skills and will also involve laboratory experience. In addition, side lectures will cover some outside topics based on student interest. Exams will be administered and graded on site and a final grade for P10A will be assigned at the termination of the camp. This is an intensive course for those who are serious in jump-starting their physics education. Students will be prepared to enroll in P10B Introductory Physics II at the end of the course.
Prerequisites: Completion of a basic course in algebra (equivalent to EPGY M011). No prior physics experience is required; however some work may be required prior to arrival.
Session Two (July 11 to July 30), ages 14-16
This course is a general overview of the scientific study of the universe as a whole. Along the way, several topics within physics, astrophysics, and astronomy will be highlighted to gain the proper background of the modern aspects of cosmology. Much of the course will be focused on understanding the basic Hot Big Bang Model. Although this model is being challenged by recent observations, it is the starting point for recent ideas such as inflation theory, multiverse theory, etc. These recent observations will be discussed and will shed light on why cosmology is a rapidly changing field. Some of the more advanced topics that may be highlighted include dark matter, dark energy, theory of inflation, anthropic principle, multiverse theory, quantum gravity, and string theory. Mathematics is the language of physics and familiarity with algebra and trigonometry will be assumed. No prior physics background is required; however many basic physics concepts will be introduced. Guest lectures by some of the more prominent researchers in cosmology will help give an up to date perspective of the status of the field.
Prerequisites: Completion of a course in basic algebra, familiarity with trigonometry.
Session Two (July 11 to July 30), ages 15-17
The theory of relativity, the achievement of Albert Einstein, is one of the two major revolutions of physics that occurred in the 20th century. At the end of the 19th century, many thought that physics was nearly complete. The classical theory of mechanics, Maxwell's theory of electromagnetism, optics, and statistical mechanics could explain most phenomena. However, a few discrepancies between observation and theory remained. Utilizing ingenious thought experiments, Einstein completely reformulated how space and time were viewed. His new theory of special relativity (1905) is a surprisingly simple theory that provides explanations for some of the aforementioned discrepancies. In this course a more modern, geometrical, view will be followed, allowing students to pursue challenging problems in many areas of physics. Once the special theory has been mastered, the inclusion of gravity will introduce the general theory of relativity. The theory of general relativity (1917), a much more mathematically sophisticated theory, will be presented in a simplified manner that bypasses the formal mathematics yet emphasizes the geometric nature of the theory. The last portion of the course will cover topics such as black holes and cosmology. The program will include visits to facilities at Stanford conducting related research, such as the Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) and Gravity Probe B. This course is not a survey course; it provides a rigorous introduction to these theories allowing a sophisticated discussion of current topics. Emphasis will be placed on solving challenging, quantitative problems.
Prerequisites: Students should have completed one year of algebra and a course in mechanics at an elementary level. In addition, knowledge of basic trigonometry will be assumed.
Inquiries concerning the Summer Institutes should be sent to epgy@infokids.com.hk.