Exploring the Universe Beyond the Ordinary

Modern physics dives into the weird and wonderful world of the very fast and the very small. It covers Einstein’s theory of relativity and quantum mechanics, which describe how the universe behaves at extremes.

Key Concepts

• Relativity: At high speeds, time and space behave differently. Time can slow down, and lengths can shrink!
• Quantum Mechanics: At the smallest scales, particles behave like both particles and waves, and outcomes are often probabilistic.

Real-World Connections

Relativity explains why GPS satellites need to account for time differences, and quantum mechanics powers lasers, computers, and even MRI scanners.

Iconic Formula

Einstein’s famous equation:

\[ E = mc^2 \]

Where \( E \) is energy, \( m \) is mass, and \( c \) is the speed of light.