Quantum gravity: challenges and perspectives

La gravité quantique : défis et perspectives

IN BRIEF Measurement of gravity at the microscopic scale achieved Research on quantum gravity to unify fundamental forces Quest for a theory unifying general relativity and quantum physics Challenges of particle interactions at the microscopic scale Loop quantum gravity: discrete spacetime Potential impact on cryptography and computability Exploration of issues surrounding quantum measurement and entanglement … Read more

Current approaches to detect dark matter

Les approches actuelles pour détecter la matière noire

IN BRIEF Detection of dark matter: innovative approach based on Josephson junctions. Exploration of gravitational waves to identify dark matter. Search for axions, potential candidates for dark matter, via their conversion into photons. Clear strategies: to do, see oneself undone, or look for its shakes. Study of neutron stars, potential keys in the detection of … Read more

Cryogenics and its modern applications

La cryogénie et ses applications modernes

IN BRIEF Definition: Study of very low temperatures. Main applications: Medicine, space exploration, superconductivity. Food industry: Use of the cryogenic freezer tunnel. Cryogenic cleaning: Historical developments in aeronautics. Preservation: Applications in cryogenics for the preservation of various substances. Importance of cryogenic cold in the thermal balance of materials. Use of liquid nitrogen in the automotive … Read more

The applications of classical mechanics in engineering

Les applications de la mécanique classique dans l'ingénierie

IN BRIEF Classical mechanics: study of the motions and forces of bodies Applications in various fields: physics, chemistry, mechanics and engineering Importance of Newton’s laws in the design of devices Role in modeling machines and robots Historical foundations: from Galileo to Newton Use in statics and dynamics Analysis of material systems subjected to multiple forces … Read more

The big bang: the birth of the universe according to physics

Le big bang : la naissance de l'univers selon la physique

IN BRIEF Big Bang: explosive event marking the birth of the Universe Occurred about 13.7 billion years ago Emergence of a dense and hot Universe The Big Bang theory supported by contemporary observations Universe continuously expanding since its creation Questions about the origin: what happened before? No defined time before the Big Bang Exploration of … Read more

The Casimir effect and its theoretical implications

L'effet Casimir et ses implications théoriques

IN BRIEF Casimir Effect: quantum phenomenon predicted by Hendrik Casimir in 1948. Attractive force between two conductive plates in a perfect vacuum. Based on fluctuations of the electromagnetic field. Sheds light on the physical reality of the vacuum and its interaction with matter. Can lead to repulsive phenomena under certain conditions. Related to divergent series … Read more

How does a power plant work?

Comment fonctionne une centrale électrique ?

IN BRIEF Power plant : transformation of primary energy into electrical energy. Types of power plants : thermal, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind. Turbine : captures primary energy to produce movement. Generator : converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Energy transformation : essential for the operation of power plants. Thermal power plant : uses steam or combustion … Read more

The philosophical implications of quantum physics

Les implications philosophiques de la physique quantique

IN BRIEF Philosophy of Quantum Physics: exploration of theoretical foundations. Interpretations: divergence between quantum models, such as the Copenhagen interpretation. Quantum Entanglement: fundamental link between distant particles, with practical implications. Philosophical Debates: discussions on the nature of reality and the predictability of events. Quantum Reality: questioning what we consider real. Elementary Phenomena: study of interactions … Read more

Museums and exhibitions dedicated to physics

Les musées et expositions dédiés à la physique

IN BRIEF Exhibition “Teaching Physics, an Art!” at the Bernard d’Agesci Museum. Topics covered: optics, weight and measures, electricity. Initiatives related to the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games at the Curie Museum. Curie Museum: historical site, modern equipment near the Panthéon. Immersive Science Museum in Lyon, offering unique experiences. New exhibition in Rouen on … Read more

How to start in theoretical physics?

Comment débuter en physique théorique ?

IN BRIEF Start with classical physics. Avoid quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity at the beginning. Focus on experimental or computational research projects. Have a minimum background in mathematics. Consider a Master’s in theoretical physics as the classic pathway. Acquire concepts of wave function in quantum physics. Take university courses to deepen knowledge. Explore … Read more