What does your group do?
We study the theory of solids and liquids. Most things that you interact with in your daily life fall under the realm of condensed matter physics. We study the theory of everything from simple structures like the salt in your kitchen to superconductors in particle accelerators.
What will students see during your exhibit?
We will show you simple and complicated examples of how theory can be used to understand the world around us, and how it is used to build a better world.
What physics is used in your demonstration?
We start with Newtonian mechanics (objects falling under gravity), but move on to discuss quantum physics and its interplay with materials science by looking at the difference between graphite and graphene
Why is it useful?
In order to change the world around us, we should first understand it. This is what theory helps us do.