Symmetry and the laws of nature (SCE 16)

  • Day and time: Thursday 10:00 - 11:00
    Weekly
  • Length of course: 1 term. Autumn (10 Weeks)
  • Number of places: 20
  • Start date: 09 October 2025
  • Description:

    The deepest laws of nature seem to depend on symmetry. After explaining what symmetry is, in its various guises (local, global, exact and approximate), its deepest consequence will be described by Noether's theorem. Its application to mechanics, relativity, the standard model of particle physics and cosmology will be described. We won't be afraid of looking at equations and outlining what they mean but we won't be solving any equations and instead will stick to what the mathematics tells us about reality. Note: There will be no class on 23 Oct; last class on 18 Dec.

  • Format: Lecture

  • Tutor: Alan Richardson
  • Having had interests in a number of areas of physics (particle physics, relativity, quantum mechanics and cosmology), symmetry plays the role of a fundamental unifying principle.


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