Monthly Presentation: Decoding the Universe – Quantum Mechanics

**Quantum mechanics (QM)** is a branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and light at the atomic and subatomic levels. When we look at the world at these tiny scales, things get weird – very weird. Particles behave in ways that are counter-intuitive and may even seem impossible. Actions on one side of the galaxy can instantly affect something on the other, as if the space between them didn’t exist.

Yet, for all its weirdness, QM has revealed more about the universe, from stars to mere dust, than we’ve ever known before. QM is the foundation of all modern physics and technology. It’s what makes lasers, transistors, and the digital technologies we enjoy work. QM is also the basis for the powerful quantum sensors and computers of tomorrow.

We will be watching a NOVA program on QM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t06aTX9jM34). Afterward, Clyde Zaidins, PhD, will answer questions about QM. We’ll be in the Eldorado Room on the first floor to the right of the elevator.

**About Our Speaker**
Clyde Zaidins is a retired Professor of Physics at CU Denver, where he taught and did research for over 40 years. He is a graduate of Caltech and has had research interests in astrophysics, nuclear physics, supernovae, stellar evolution, and the fundamental structure of matter.

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