Archives for Physics, Math - Page 5
Write computer programs to learn physics and math
Where I grew up, we were taught math the hard way. We HAD to struggle through problems. No matter how complex or convoluted the problem was, it was almost a…
Statistical Fallacies and Probability Teasers
Under construction Stock Trading - Incorrect Probability Conclusion Stock can either go up , down or stay still. Hence, probability of any one stock going down is 1/3 rd. Soldiers…
Time Intervals in Special Relativity
Nothing heckles our common sense notion of 'time' more than Special Relativity. Consider a muon particle decaying as it enters the earth's atmosphere. As per the muon, it should only…
Shortest ever Intro to Lie Algebras and Lie Groups
A Lie algebra is simply a) a vector space b) with an "operation" such that the operation of any two vectors x and y is again a vector, and such…
Interstellar Travel – Some Mind Boggling Calculations
Redefining distances - 1 - Astronomical Unit (Distance between Sun and Earth) = 150 million kilometres, Redefine 1 = 1 cm Solar System (radius) = 1 foot on this scale.…
Lie Groups–Notes
Algebraic equations vs. Differential equations Galois Theory – dealt with symmetries in algebraic equations Lie – Tried to do the same (look for underlying symmetries). Lie Groups Are a Group…
The Shape of Galaxies Explained by new theoretical model
Galaxies come in three shapes – Spiral (2/3 rds of all galaxies), Elliptical (about 1/3rd of all galaxies) and Irregular (no well defined shape). Scientists have used dark matter theory…
What does space-time look like from a photon’s point of view?
A frame of reference cannot 'travel at light speed'. That frame would (if it DID make it to the c) see space collapse to a point in the direction of…
Does time stop for a photon? If so, how can it move (travel)?
The photon's time doesn't 'stop' - as far as we can tell. Relativity doesn't have frames of reference moving at c, so it's not possible to define how fast time…
Rare finds in Special and General Relativity
Understanding the two theories of relativity is not just a pastime for physicists. There is something existential and comforting about imagining ‘riding on a light wave’ and how the Universe…