Southeastern scientist to break down quantum mechanics in next Science on Tap
Thursday, September 24, 2015
by: Rene Abadie
HAMMOND – What do you know about quantum mechanics? If you’re like most non-scientists,
probably very little.
“The Nuts and Bolts of Quantum Mechanics” will be the topic of Southeastern Louisiana
University’s next Science on Tap presentation scheduled Tuesday, Oct. 6. The presentation,
which is geared to laymen, will be held at 7 p.m. at Tope lá Catering, 113 East Thomas
St., in Hammond. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The presentation is free and open to all
ages.
Quantum mechanics is that branch of physics that relates to very small subatomic
matter, explained William A. Parkinson, associate professor of physics, who will present
the topic.
“The development of quantum mechanics was seminal in many regards,” he said. “Not
only did it usher in a radical new way of perceiving matter, quantum mechanics also
fostered unprecedented cooperative effort among scientists. It gives critical insight
into the theories of light, electricity, magnetism and astrophysics, while paving
the way for the incredible technological advances of the last century.”
Parkinson promises an evening of “edutainment,” rather than a purely scientific
lecture.
“We will examine science prior to the advent of quantum mechanics and the conundrums
that led up to its proposal,” he said, “the human interest of the individuals involved
in its development, and the philosophical issues that its results seem to imply with
regard to man’s role in the universe.”
For information on future Science on Tap presentations, contact the Department
of Biological Sciences at 985-549-3740.
