Condensed Matter Physics – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 77
Nov 30, 2023
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The podcast discusses condensed matter physics, its scope, and relevance. It explores the different states of matter, such as liquid crystals and solid water, and how they are characterized. The speaker reflects on the interdisciplinary nature of condensed matter physics and its connections to other sciences. The episode also delves into superconductivity, its properties, theoretical challenges, and its connection to quantum theory and complex systems.
Condensed matter physics explores various states of matter and their physical properties beyond solids, liquids, and gases.
The study of condensed matter physics focuses on understanding the unique characteristics of materials by examining atomic-level interactions.
Deep dives
The Many States of Matter
Condensed matter physics explores the numerous states of matter beyond the traditional solid, liquid, and gas. Examples of these states include liquid crystals, glass, superconductors, ferromagnets, and superfluids. The field continuously uncovers new states, revealing the diverse physical properties that emerge from the composition of materials at the atomic level.
Understanding Materials and Properties
Condensed matter physics adopts a unique approach to studying materials and their physical properties. It seeks to answer why materials exhibit distinct characteristics by examining the relationship between the atoms in the material and their interactions. By identifying unifying concepts and organizing principles, researchers aim to explain phenomena in chemically diverse materials, paving the way for technological advancements in various fields.
Fascinating Superconductivity
Superconductivity is a captivating state of matter that occurs in certain metals at extremely low temperatures. In this state, metals conduct electricity without resistance and can even expel magnetic fields. Although the theory behind superconductivity was not fully understood until decades after its experimental discovery, it has implications in various fields like liquid helium, nuclear physics, and elementary particle physics.
In this episode, Ross H. McKenzie introduces condensed matter physics, the field which aims to explain how states of matter and their distinct physical properties emerge.
Ross H. McKenzie is an Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. His research in condensed matter physics focuses on using quantum theory to understand complex materials, ranging from organic superconductors to fluorescent proteins.