Course Credits (3)
Imagine the universe consisted only of beads of different size and color on a single string, with some rules about how they would interact, combine, separate from, or bounce off one another. How would familiar notions of classical physics such as gravity or electromagnetism look like in such a universe? What about quantum phenomena? How far can one go on this quest? Is it feasible to look for a one-dimensional "theory of everything"? This is the stuff of fundamental physics, and my goal in this course is to introduce students to the mathematical tools they need in order to understand these questions; help them use those tools to find satisfactory answers to some of the questions; give them the vocabulary they need in order to ask many more such profound questions, not just about this cartoon world, but also about the actual world we live in. The emphasis will be on mathematical rigor and exact analysis. Assignments include weekly readings, in-class discussions and presentations, a mid-term paper, and a final report.
About Professor Tahvildar-Zadeh
Professor Tahvildar-Zadeh is a professor in the Department of Mathematics, School of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Tahvildar-Zadeh received his PhD from Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. His research interests are in Mathematical Physics (special and general relativity, quantum mechanics).