In this episode of Science is All Around You, we delve into the fascinating world of physics education using the one device almost everyone carries: a smartphone. Highlighting the untapped potential of these powerful tools, we explore how their built-in sensors and features can transform them into portable laboratories for mechanics, optics, sound, and electromagnetism.

From determining the resonance frequency of a guitar string and measuring speed using the Doppler effect to calibrating a smartphone as a microscope for onion cell measurements and estimating the size of the Earth, we discuss hands-on experiments that are both educational and accessible. With clear explanations and everyday materials, this episode demonstrates how science can truly be all around us—right in the palm of our hands.

Tune in to discover practical, engaging ways to bring physics to life using the technology you already own!

This episode focuses on Ice and Water. The conversation covers density, comparing various materials; calculating the speed of water from a faucet using a simple physics formula; and explaining why ice floats using molecular models. Further topics include Bernoulli's equation to determine air speed from a straw, the physics of Scrooge McDuck's frozen money bin, and the effects of salt on ice. Finally, they delve into surface tension and capillary action, demonstrating their effects through several simple experiments and explaining their roles in natural processes.

In this episode of Science is All Around You, we dive into the lesser-known story of Albert Einstein’s early life, uncovering the experiences that shaped the mind of one of history’s greatest physicists.

This episode explores the science of influence, breaking down the psychological principles that drive persuasion and offering actionable strategies to increase your success in getting others to say "yes."

This episode delves into the intersection of scientific diplomacy, climate change, and misinformation. It highlights ultracrepidarianism—people giving opinions outside their expertise—and its link to the Dunning-Kruger effect, where individuals with low competence overestimate their abilities. These phenomena contribute to climate change misinformation, complicating consensus and solutions.

The discussion also covers fast thinking, which relies on heuristics and can lead to inaccurate judgments about complex issues like climate change. For example, experiencing a harsh winter might lead someone to mistakenly dismiss global warming.

To combat misinformation, the episode emphasizes improving science literacy and critical thinking skills, advocating for engaging communication of climate science through personal stories and real-world impacts. It concludes by stressing the need for evidence-based policies and creating spaces for respectful dialogue to bridge differing perspectives on climate change.

Summary

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the history, physics, and technological development of lasers, from their theoretical foundations laid by Einstein to the most recent advancements in attosecond pulse generation and inertial confinement fusion. The podcast covers key figures and milestones in laser research, including the invention of the first laser by Maiman, the development of various types of lasers, and the applications of lasers in fields such as spectroscopy, communications, and medicine. It also explores the potential of lasers for advancing areas such as attosecond science and nuclear fusion.

In this episode, we delve into the use of quantitative methods in social science and education research. Starting with Galileo's emphasis on mathematics, we explore the strengths and limits of quantitative research, techniques for data collection and analysis, and common statistical tests for comparing groups and testing hypotheses. We also touch on key sampling methods used in research.

In this episode, we explore the birth of quantum physics. We trace its historical development, from the discovery of the photoelectric effect to the foundational contributions of Max Planck and Albert Einstein. The episode highlights the shift from classical physics' idea of continuous energy to quantum theory's concept of quantized energy.

The episode explores mathematical models of opinion dynamics, focusing on how individual opinions and social influences interact. One study examines the impact of periodic propaganda in the Continuous Opinions with Threshold (COT) model, revealing that strategic timing can be more effective than constant propaganda. Another study adds a “death/birth” process to the COT model, showing how the influx of new opinions can alter the system’s behavior, even when consensus would naturally be reached without external influence. The episode highlights the complex dynamics of opinion formation and the significant role of external factors.

https://journals.aps.org/pre/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevE.76.066105

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/9789814287456_0019?srsltid=AfmBOop5FcvosoxRC1XlJmqDKavYRb81IO6iFn18YqMQ4P8Qi5ypUqHs

https://hal.univ-reunion.fr/hal-02059365/document