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Yi Wang
Course Overview: https://youtu.be/xyF-MmGNxd0
The 20th century was known as the century of physics. In the past 120 years, concepts such as space, time, energy, entropy and particles were understood to much deeper levels. New paradigms of thinking such as relativity and quantum mechanics emerged.
Read more
Course Overview: https://youtu.be/xyF-MmGNxd0
The 20th century was known as the century of physics. In the past 120 years, concepts such as space, time, energy, entropy and particles were understood to much deeper levels. New paradigms of thinking such as relativity and quantum mechanics emerged.
Read more
Course Overview: https://youtu.be/xyF-MmGNxd0
The 20th century was known as the century of physics. In the past 120 years, concepts such as space, time, energy, entropy and particles were understood to much deeper levels. New paradigms of thinking such as relativity and quantum mechanics emerged.
This course is the first course in the Understanding Modern Physics series, which covers an introduction to special relativity, general relativity and cosmology. We will find: (i) How space and time are relative to observers, and unified into a more fundamental construction of spacetime; (ii) Why the spacetime is not absolute, but rather curves in response to matter, and how gravity emerge as a result of such spacetime curvature; and (iii) What is the framework to understand the evolution of the whole universe, and how that is related to problems such as the origin of space and matter, and the fate of our universe.
Note: the videos with a (*) are optional. They provide complementary information but not in the learning objective or assignment questions. Feel free to choose to watch them or not.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/dubhvx/understanding
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What's inside
Syllabus
Special Relativity: Relativity of Space and Time
Special Relativity: Length, Simultaneity and Lorentz Transformation
Special Relativity: Geometry, Energy and Momentum
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Syllabus
Special Relativity: Relativity of Space and Time
Special Relativity: Length, Simultaneity and Lorentz Transformation
Special Relativity: Geometry, Energy and Momentum
Read more
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Explores the basics of relativity by introducing Special Relativity and General Relativity
This is the first course in the Understanding Modern Physics series, which covers an introduction to special relativity, general relativity and cosmology
Introduces cosmology, which is a branch of astrophysics dealing with the nature of the universe
Taught by Professor Yi Wang, who has a strong background in theoretical particle physics, cosmology, and string theory
Provides an optional additional overview video at the beginning of the course to help students frame the learning objectives and content
In addition to video lectures, the course also includes optional readings, quizzes to test your understanding, and optional assignments for practice
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Reviews summary
Engaging introduction to modern physics
According to students, this course offers an engaging and insightful introduction to modern physics, particularly relativity and cosmology. Learners consistently praise the professor's exceptional teaching ability, highlighting their skill in making complex concepts accessible and enjoyable. While many find the course provides a solid foundational understanding even for those with no prior physics background, some prospective students should be aware that the material can be challenging for true beginners and may feel somewhat theoretical, with calls for more practice problems or visual aids. Overall, it's considered a demanding but highly rewarding experience.
The course pacing is mostly good, but some found parts rushed or desired more practice.
"The pacing was good and allowed for proper absorption of the content without feeling overwhelmed."
"I felt some parts were rushed, and I really wished there were more practice problems to solidify understanding."
"The explanations were sometimes dense, and the course moved too fast at times, making it hard for the material to sink in."
"I think the course could use more visual aids or analogies to make some concepts easier to grasp."
Opinions vary on whether the course truly suits those without a strong physics background.
"I recommend this course for anyone interested in modern physics, as no prior physics background was needed."
"This course was a gem for me as a beginner, providing a solid foundation from scratch."
"I was extremely disappointed; it's not for someone without a strong math/physics background and felt misadvertised as introductory."
"As a first-timer, I found it a bit challenging, but it was still worth the effort."
The course provides a well-structured and insightful overview of modern physics topics.
"I found the course to be well-structured and it provided a comprehensive overview of modern physics."
"It was very insightful, the professor truly brings life to the subject and helped me build a deep understanding."
"This course was a demanding but truly rewarding experience; I gained a comprehensive understanding."
The professor is consistently praised for clarity, passion, and making complex topics engaging.
"The Professor excels at explaining complex concepts and made them accessible, even for someone new to the field."
"This professor is passionate about the subject, making learning enjoyable and providing a solid foundation."
"I found the Professor to be a true master in simplifying complex ideas, turning a difficult subject into an incredible journey."
"The professor has a gift for teaching complex subjects... I highly recommend this course."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology with these
activities:
Review vectors
Show steps
Vectors are essential for understanding the relationship between space and time, which is a fundamental concept in special and general relativity. Reviewing vectors will help you build a stronger foundation for the course.
Browse courses on
Vectors
Show steps
-
Go over your notes or textbook on vectors.
-
Practice solving vector problems.
-
Take a practice quiz on vectors.
Read "Special Relativity" by Albert Einstein
Show steps
Reading "Special Relativity" by Albert Einstein will give you a deep understanding of the theory from the original source.
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
-
Read the book and take notes.
-
Review your notes and summarize the main concepts.
Watch video tutorials on special relativity
Show steps
Watching video tutorials can help you visualize and understand the concepts of special relativity more clearly.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
-
Search for video tutorials on special relativity.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes.
-
Pause the tutorials to think about the concepts and ask yourself questions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on special relativity
Show steps
Solving practice problems will help you apply the concepts of special relativity and test your understanding.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
-
Find practice problems on special relativity.
-
Solve the problems and check your answers.
-
Review your mistakes and go over the concepts again if necessary.
Join a study group or discussion forum on special relativity
Show steps
Joining a study group or discussion forum can help you connect with other students and learn from their perspectives.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
-
Find a study group or discussion forum on special relativity.
-
Join the group or forum and introduce yourself.
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Write a blog post or article on special relativity
Show steps
Writing a blog post or article will help you consolidate your understanding of special relativity and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
-
Choose a topic related to special relativity.
-
Research the topic and gather information.
-
Write a draft of your blog post or article.
-
Revise and edit your draft.
-
Publish your blog post or article.
Attend a workshop on special relativity
Show steps
Attending a workshop on special relativity can provide you with an immersive learning experience and the opportunity to ask questions to experts.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
-
Find a workshop on special relativity.
-
Register for the workshop.
-
Attend the workshop and take notes.
Mentor a peer on special relativity
Show steps
Mentoring a peer on special relativity can help you reinforce your understanding of the theory and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
-
Find a peer who is interested in learning about special relativity.
-
Set up regular meetings to discuss the concepts.
-
Provide practice problems and answer questions.
Review vectors
Show steps
Vectors are essential for understanding the relationship between space and time, which is a fundamental concept in special and general relativity. Reviewing vectors will help you build a stronger foundation for the course.
Browse courses on
Vectors
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go over your notes or textbook on vectors.
- Practice solving vector problems.
- Take a practice quiz on vectors.
Read "Special Relativity" by Albert Einstein
Show steps
Reading "Special Relativity" by Albert Einstein will give you a deep understanding of the theory from the original source.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
- Read the book and take notes.
- Review your notes and summarize the main concepts.
Watch video tutorials on special relativity
Show steps
Watching video tutorials can help you visualize and understand the concepts of special relativity more clearly.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for video tutorials on special relativity.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes.
- Pause the tutorials to think about the concepts and ask yourself questions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on special relativity
Show steps
Solving practice problems will help you apply the concepts of special relativity and test your understanding.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems on special relativity.
- Solve the problems and check your answers.
- Review your mistakes and go over the concepts again if necessary.
Join a study group or discussion forum on special relativity
Show steps
Joining a study group or discussion forum can help you connect with other students and learn from their perspectives.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or discussion forum on special relativity.
- Join the group or forum and introduce yourself.
- Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Write a blog post or article on special relativity
Show steps
Writing a blog post or article will help you consolidate your understanding of special relativity and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic related to special relativity.
- Research the topic and gather information.
- Write a draft of your blog post or article.
- Revise and edit your draft.
- Publish your blog post or article.
Attend a workshop on special relativity
Show steps
Attending a workshop on special relativity can provide you with an immersive learning experience and the opportunity to ask questions to experts.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop on special relativity.
- Register for the workshop.
- Attend the workshop and take notes.
Mentor a peer on special relativity
Show steps
Mentoring a peer on special relativity can help you reinforce your understanding of the theory and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Special Relativity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a peer who is interested in learning about special relativity.
- Set up regular meetings to discuss the concepts.
- Provide practice problems and answer questions.
Career center
Learners who complete Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Theoretical Physicist
Theoretical Physicist
Theoretical Physicists investigate the fundamental principles and laws that govern the universe. They use mathematical models and computer simulations to study the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology would be a great fit for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and cosmology. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Theoretical Physicists.
Astronomer
Astronomer
Astronomers study the universe and everything in it, from planets and stars to galaxies and black holes. They use telescopes and other instruments to collect data about the universe and its history. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology would be a great fit for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and cosmology. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its largest scales, and they play a vital role in the work of Astronomers.
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicists study the physical properties of celestial objects and the laws that govern them. They use telescopes and other instruments to collect data about the universe and its history. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology would be a great fit for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and cosmology. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its largest scales, and they play a vital role in the work of Astrophysicists.
Cosmologist
Cosmologist
Cosmologists study the origin, evolution, and fate of the universe. They use telescopes and other instruments to collect data about the universe and its history. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology would be a great fit for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and cosmology. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its largest scales, and they play a vital role in the work of Cosmologists.
Particle Physicist
Particle Physicist
Particle Physicists study the fundamental particles that make up matter and energy. They use particle accelerators and other instruments to study the behavior of these particles and the forces that act upon them. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology would be a great fit for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Particle Physicists.
Nuclear Physicist
Nuclear Physicist
Nuclear Physicists study the nucleus of the atom and the forces that hold it together. They use particle accelerators and other instruments to study the behavior of these particles and the forces that act upon them. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology would be a great fit for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Nuclear Physicists.
Geophysicist
Geophysicist
Geophysicists study the physical properties of the Earth and its atmosphere. They use a variety of techniques to study the Earth's interior, surface, and atmosphere, including seismic waves, gravity measurements, and remote sensing. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Geophysicists.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists study the properties of materials and how they can be used to create new products. They use a variety of techniques to study the structure and properties of materials, including X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and spectroscopy. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Materials Scientists.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design and build machines and other devices. They use a variety of principles from physics and mathematics to design and test their creations. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Mechanical Engineers.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers design and build aircraft and spacecraft. They use a variety of principles from physics and mathematics to design and test their creations. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Aerospace Engineers.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design and build electrical systems and devices. They use a variety of principles from physics and mathematics to design and test their creations. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Electrical Engineers.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers design and build chemical plants and other facilities. They use a variety of principles from physics and chemistry to design and test their creations. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Chemical Engineers.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists design and build computer systems and software. They use a variety of principles from mathematics and physics to design and test their creations. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Computer Scientists.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. They use a variety of techniques from mathematics, statistics, and computer science to analyze data and build models. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Data Scientists.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use data to make investment decisions. They use a variety of techniques from mathematics, statistics, and economics to analyze data and make predictions. This course in Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology may be useful for someone interested in this field, as it provides a strong foundation in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. These theories are essential for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, and they play a vital role in the work of Financial Analysts.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/dubhvx/understanding
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology.
This classic work by Albert Einstein must-read for anyone who wants to learn about the theory of relativity. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the basic concepts of special and general relativity.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to general relativity, covering topics such as the curvature of spacetime, black holes, and cosmology. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the fundamental concepts of general relativity.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cosmology, covering topics such as the Big Bang, the formation of galaxies, and the future of the universe. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the history and evolution of the universe.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the early universe, covering topics such as the Big Bang, nucleosynthesis, and the formation of the first stars and galaxies. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the early history of the universe.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern physics, covering topics such as quantum mechanics, general relativity, and cosmology. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the fundamental concepts of modern physics.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to cosmology. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of the Big Bang to the latest developments in dark matter and dark energy.
Save
Provides a clear and concise overview of the latest developments in physics, including the Big Bang, black holes, and the future of the universe. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the latest discoveries in physics.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to cosmology, covering topics such as the basics of the Big Bang to the latest developments in dark matter and dark energy. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the history and evolution of the universe.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to general relativity, covering topics such as the curvature of spacetime, black holes, and cosmology. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the fundamental concepts of general relativity.
Save
This textbook comprehensive and authoritative treatment of gravitation. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basic concepts of Newtonian gravity to the latest developments in general relativity.
Save
Provides a clear and concise overview of the latest developments in physics, including the Big Bang, black holes, and the future of the universe. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the latest discoveries in physics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to modern astrophysics, covering topics such as the Sun, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. It great resource for students who want to learn more about the fundamental concepts of astrophysics.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/dubhvx/understanding
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Effort
5 weeks of study, 5 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Instructor
Yi Wang
Language
English
Transcripts
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