Duane Physics Room G1B20

Abstract: For decades, scientists have pursued a bold goal: creating a laser that works not just with visible light but with powerful X-rays. Conventional X-ray sources, essential in medicine, security, and technology, are based on principles dating back to Röntgen’s discovery in 1895, essentially a brighter, more advanced X-ray light bulb. But just as lasers revolutionized the way we harness visible light, an X-ray laser would unlock extraordinary new capabilities in science and technology. The challenge?

Abstract:  Black holes are often portrayed as cosmic vacuum cleaners that swallow everything, even light. In reality, they are far richer and more revealing: each black hole is a natural laboratory where the two great pillars of modern physics — Einstein’s general relativity and quantum mechanics — meet head-on. In this talk, we will venture from the known, the black holes that we can observe in our sky, into the unknown, where we begin to understand how black holes obey the rules of quantum mechanics.

Abstract: Science faces an accessibility challenge. Although information/knowledge is fast becoming available to everyone around the world, the experience of science is significantly limited. One approach to solving this challenge is to democratize access to scientific tools. We believe this can be achieved via “Frugal science”; a philosophy that inspires design, development and deployment of ultra-affordable yet powerful scientific tools for the masses.

Abstract: Particle, nuclear, and astrophysics experiments are producing massive amounts of data to answer fundamental questions about the basic constituents of our universe.  While researchers in these areas have been using advanced data science tools for decades, modern machine learning has introduced a paradigm shift whereby data can be directly analyzed holistically without first compressing it into a more manageable and human understandable format.  How will the machines help us explore the unknown?  Can they be trusted to give us the right answers?

Abstract: Quantum computers, machines that harness the power of quantum physics and have the potential to outperform their classical counterparts, have recently captured the public's imagination. Amidst the waves of hype and skepticism in the media, what is at the origin of the excitement and what is the real progress of this quest at the frontiers of quantum science and engineering?

Abstract: Quantum computers, machines that harness the power of quantum physics and have the potential to outperform their classical counterparts, have recently captured the public's imagination. Amidst the waves of hype and skepticism in the media, what is at the origin of the excitement and what is the real progress of this quest at the frontiers of quantum science and engineering?

Duane Physics and Astrophysics, G1B20

2000 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, CO 80309

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YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/MA-EFesKnQU

Colloquia are Wednesdays at 4:40 p.m. unless otherwise noted and will be in person at DUAN G1B20, as well as online via Zoom and Youtube. If you are not a student/faculty member in physics, pre-register with Veronica Lingo (veronica.lingo@colorado.edu) to attend a lecture.

Masks are required for all colloquium attendees, regardless of vaccination status.

This Colloquium is IN-PERSON only.

Coffee and Cookies will be available at 3:45 in DUAN G1B31