A new paper shows that we can simulate magnetic monopoles in condensed matter. This research may give us a better understanding of hypothetical magnetic monopole particles that could solve one of the great mysteries of astrophysics.
Give and Take
How do we determine the mass of a star? One way is to look at the motion of binary stars. Their motion due to their mutual attraction allows us to calculate their masses by their orbits.
Taking the Quantum Leap
The common view of the atom is that of a compact nucleus with electrons swirling around it like little planets. But this “mini solar system” idea leads to a serious problem.
Light Meter
It is impossible to measure the speed of light, and it has been impossible since 1983. No, the behavior of light didn’t suddenly change in 1983. What changed was the way we define the length of a meter.
Here and There
When Isaac Newton proposed his universal law of gravity, he was actually making a rather bold claim, specifically that the distant stars and planets are governed by the same physical laws that govern the Earth. This was a radical split from the traditional Aristotelian view that the heavens were fundamentally different from terrestrial physics.
Coin Toss
Suppose you were given one million dollar coins. Sure, you could spend it on something frivolous like paying off your house or your college loan, but you could also use those million coins to play a game related to quantum physics.
Massive Issues
We all know that many objects (atoms, cats, us) have mass. What you probably don’t know is that there are multiple different types of mass, and this has real physical (and astrophysical) consequences.
Engineering Problems
To that end, suppose on our rocket we had a perfectly efficient engine that converted 100% of the fuel into energy for the ship. This gives us an idea of just how much fuel we would need (at minimum).
You’re Hot
A simple calculation shows that you produce more heat per volume than the Sun. Of course that result is a bit misleading.