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Explore how oscillations of sound and light waves can define units of time in this 58-minute Christmas Lecture from The Royal Institution. Discover the evolution from early clocks that relied on flowing substances like water and sand to more reliable timekeeping methods using oscillations and waves, including the swinging pendulum system. Learn about Thomas Young's 200-year-old wave theory of light and examine how our bodies naturally excel at detecting "inverse time" through oscillations, particularly those associated with light and sound waves that we perceive as colors and music. Investigate the universal laws governing time patterns in music despite diverse musical tastes, and understand how modern applications sculpt light and sound waves for optical fiber communication, laser surgery, ultrasound scans, and entertainment special effects. Recorded on December 2, 1999, this lecture demonstrates the fundamental principles connecting oscillations, waves, and our perception of time through engaging demonstrations and scientific explanations.
