We will learn about the origin of the hypothesis of quanta, as a proposed mathematical solution to the problem of the blackbody radiation, and explore the consequences of this revolutionary hypothesis.
As we discover how the hypothesis of quanta evolved into a theory, we will encounter paradoxes and bizarre phenomena. We will consider the history of quantum physics in relation to the history to the other seminal theory of the twentieth century, the theory of relativity. We will understand better the place of classical mechanics as a limit of quantum mechanics. We will discuss some philosophical controversies around the concept of measurement, objectivity and determinism. You will learn about the most recent developments in quantum physics.
This course is part of the Oxford University Summer School for Adults (OUSSA) programme.