Symmetries and Group Theory in Physics

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Exploration of symmetries and group theory in physics, covering discrete groups like the triangle group and the square group, as well as smooth transformations represented by matrices such as SU2 and SU3. The chapter includes anecdotes about 'licensed quantum mechanic' shirts, discussions on vacuum states in quantum field theory, and the concept of compactification in string theory.

Welcome to the June 2024 Ask Me Anything episode of Mindscape! These monthly excursions are funded by Patreon supporters (who are also the ones asking the questions). We take questions asked by Patreons, whittle them down to a more manageable number -- based primarily on whether I have anything interesting to say about them, not whether the questions themselves are good -- and sometimes group them together if they are about a similar topic. Enjoy!

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Blog post with show notes, questions, and transcript: https://www.preposterousuniverse.com/podcast/2024/06/03/ama-jun-2024/

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