The Universe's Hidden Dimensions
FYSEMR 26J
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
This seminar will give an overview and introduction to modern physics, astronomy, and cosmology. As with the books: Warped Passages, Knocking on Heaven's Door, Higgs Discovery, and Dark Matter and the Dinosaurs, on which it will be loosely based, the seminar will consider important developments in physics today and in the last century. We will consider the revolutionary developments of quantum mechanics and general relativity and will investigate the key concepts which separated these developments from the physical theories which previously existed. We will delve into modern particle physics and cosmology.
Our focus will be on developments today in fundamental physics, astronomy and cosmology, reviewing the current cosmological model based on the Big Bang theory and inflation and investigating what we might learn in the new future. We will also move beyond the standard theories into more speculative arenas, including theories of extra dimensions of space, as well as ideas about the nature of dark matter and black holes. We will consider the motivations underlying these theories, their current status, and how we might hope to test some of the underlying ideas in the near future. Note that this course will include more cosmology than previous incarnations.
Class Notes
First-Year Seminars are available only to first-year students. You may apply to both Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 First-Year Seminars via the FYS lottery between July 6 and August 6, 2026 at 11:59PM-midnight.
You may apply to as many seminars each term as you would like, but we recommend you apply to at least six in fall and three in spring.
As part of your application, you must provide a brief statement on why you are interested in each seminar. You will be notified of lottery results for both fall and spring seminars at 5 pm on August 11. If you are unsuccessful in the lottery, you may still join any seminar with open seats. A list of open seminars and instructions on next steps will be available on the First-Year Seminar Program website August 11 at 12 Noon.
Not Available for Cross Registration
