Show for Jan. 8, 2012. The Theory that Changed the Universe: Anthony Aguirre on General Relativity. Pt 1 of 2.
It was Einstein’s greatest idea, and one of the boldest leaps of scientific imagination ever. Much of what physicists know (or think they know) about space, time and the cosmos depends on it. But General Relativity is usually brushed over in pop sci accounts, because GR is considered too GD difficult for ordinary brains. Even on this scientifically-minded program, we’ve given it pretty cursory treatment. But not this time. I’m devoting two whole shows to the subject with physicist Anthony Aguirre. He’s taught relativity and applies it in his own cosmological research, and does a yeomanly job here of making some very alien concepts approachable.
Included in Pt 1: From Special to General Relativity, gravity reconsidered, the geometry of spacetime, practical implications of GR, and evidence for the theory.
I’m not sure what those equations are behind Anthony Aguirre, but here’s one version of Einstein’s field equation, which we discussed in the program:
Click the Play arrow above to listen to the show, or you can download the MP3 here (if using a Mac, control-click the link and choose “Save Link As…” If using a PC, right-click and choose Save Target As…”)
