Physics Experiments That Changed the World – With Suzie Sheehy

This course explores how landmark twentieth-century physics experiments transformed understanding of the universe and society. It uses stories, demonstrations, and historical context to examine X-rays, electrons, radioactivity, cosmic rays, particle detectors, accelerators, and superconductors.

Syllabus

Introduction
Physics at the turn of the 20th century
Predicting the future in 1900
Wilhelm Röntgen and the discovery of X-rays
J.J. Thompson and the discovery of the electron
Harriet Brooks and understanding radioactivity
Victor Hess and discovering cosmic rays
C.T.R. Wilson's cloud chamber
The women who pioneered particle photography
The first particle accelerator
The emergence of big science after WW2
Helen Edwards and the superconductor
Hope for the future