Curious Cases
3. Mirror, Mirror
Oct 26, 2024
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Felix Flicker, a theoretical physicist from the University of Bristol, and Professor Stuart Reid from the University of Strathclyde delve deep into the fascinating world of mirrors. They explore how subatomic interactions create reflections, the role of astonishing reflective films in devices, and the precision behind the $2 million mirrors at LIGO. The episode wraps up with amusing insights into how a pint behaves in space, highlighting the quirky side of physics!
30:28
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Quick takeaways
- The distinction between shine and reflectivity highlights mirrors' ability to bounce light effectively, surpassing the brilliance of objects like diamonds.
- Advanced engineering techniques, such as creating the Enhanced Specular Reflector, demonstrate how multi-layer materials can revolutionize light efficiency in modern devices.
Deep dives
Exploring Shiny Objects
The question posed by a nine-year-old about the shiniest object in the universe leads to a discussion about various candidates. Diamonds are mentioned for their brilliance, but the conversation shifts toward the reflective qualities of mirrors, grounding the notion of shine in terms of reflectivity. This distinction between 'shiny' and 'bright' becomes pivotal, as the focus moves from the inherent shine of objects like diamonds to the reflective surfaces of mirrors, which can bounce back light effectively. Guests with expertise in optics are introduced to provide a deeper understanding of the properties that define various 'shiny' substances.
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