Janna Levin, a physics and astronomy professor at Barnard College, dives deep into the cosmic mysteries of black holes and the nature of time. She explores whether time is merely a human construct, unraveling concepts like time dilation and its effects on aging and technology. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as they question the reality of existence while mixing humor with profound insights. Plus, hear about the emotional connections we have with black holes and the potential of time travel through wormholes—an engaging blend of science and imagination!
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insights INSIGHT
Gravity's Repulsive Nature
Gravity can act as a repulsive force, as seen with dark energy's accelerating expansion of the universe.
A ping pong ball near orbiting black holes would experience spacetime shifts but likely not be carried away by gravitational waves like a surfer.
insights INSIGHT
Universe's Expansion
The universe is not expanding into another space, as it is the entirety of space itself.
The expansion can be viewed relationally, like a map's legend changing without the map itself moving.
insights INSIGHT
Reality as Energy and Illusion
All matter is a form of energy interacting in specific ways.
Our perception of reality might be an illusion to help us comprehend the world.
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This book is an anthology of over 40 essays written by Neil deGrasse Tyson, originally published in Natural History magazine between 1995 and 2005. It covers a wide range of cosmic topics, such as the augmentation of human senses for scientific discovery, the universal laws of physics, the pitfalls of generalizing from limited evidence, and the various ways the universe can pose threats to life. The book also explores the interface between science and culture, including critiques of astronomical errors in popular films and discussions on the role of religion in science. Tyson's writing is characterized by his conversational tone and infectious enthusiasm for astrophysics[1][2][5].
Black Hole
Charles Burns
The story follows a group of teenagers who contract a disease known as 'the Bug', which leads to bizarre physical mutations and social ostracism. The plot centers around characters like Chris, Keith, and Eliza, exploring themes of adolescence, sexual awakening, and the transition into adulthood. The series is known for its dark and unsettling narrative, as well as its unique visual style and storytelling techniques.
Is anything real? Is time just a construct? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Matt Kirshen answer your far-out questions about black holes, dark matter, and the universe with astrophysicist Janna Levin.
NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: https://www.startalkradio.net/show/cosmic-queries-stoner-edition-with-janna-levin/
Thanks to our Patrons Ivan Masjuk, c, Nathan Mitchell, Conner Kemmsies, Dustin Dewayne Hart, Kyle Reinsberg, Andrew Magri, Virginia Cohen, Cathleen Corrie, and David Claassen
for supporting us this week.
Photo Credit: Les Bossinas (Cortez III Service Corp.), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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