Searching The Universe For Clues To The Ultra-Small
16:58 minutes
What exactly is … everything? What is space-time?
At one extreme, you’ve got the weird rules of quantum physics that deal with subatomic particles. At the other extreme, you’ve got the vast expanses of space, such as spinning galaxies and black holes.
By mapping the cosmic microwave background, surveying the distribution of galaxies around the sky, and listening for gravitational waves, researchers are studying the cosmos for clues to the quantum. They hope that by finding patterns in some of these large-scale structures, tiny irregularities involving quantum effects in the earliest days of the universe might be revealed.
Charlie Wood, a staff writer covering physics for Quanta Magazine, has written about some of these space-time mysteries in a special issue. He joins Ira to discuss the nature of space-time and how scientists are trying to decode its physics.
Further Reading
- Read more about the “magical equation” that unites quantum physics and general relativity.
- Learn about the world-wobbling hum that stumped scientists via Quanta Magazine.
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Segment Guests
Charlie Wood
Charlie Wood is a staff writer covering physics for Quanta Magazine in New York, New York.
Segment Transcript
The transcript of this segment is being processed. It will be available within one week after the show airs.
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About Charles Bergquist
@cbquistAs Science Friday’s director and senior producer, Charles Bergquist channels the chaos of a live production studio into something sounding like a radio program. Favorite topics include planetary sciences, chemistry, materials, and shiny things with blinking lights.
About Ira Flatow
@iraflatowIra Flatow is the host and executive producer of Science Friday. His green thumb has revived many an office plant at death’s door.