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Hitoshi Murayama
We have learned a lot recently about how the Universe evolved in 13.8 billion years since the Big Bang. More than 80% of matter in the Universe is mysterious Dark Matter, which made stars and galaxies to form. The newly discovered Higgs-boson became frozen into the Universe a trillionth of a second after the Big Bang and brought order to the Universe. Yet we still do not know how ordinary matter (atoms) survived against total annihilation by Anti-Matter. The expansion of the Universe started acceleration about 7 billion years ago and the Universe is being ripped apart. The culprit is Dark Energy, a mysterious energy multiplying in vacuum. I will present evidence behind these startling discoveries and discuss what we may learn in the near future.
Read more
We have learned a lot recently about how the Universe evolved in 13.8 billion years since the Big Bang. More than 80% of matter in the Universe is mysterious Dark Matter, which made stars and galaxies to form. The newly discovered Higgs-boson became frozen into the Universe a trillionth of a second after the Big Bang and brought order to the Universe. Yet we still do not know how ordinary matter (atoms) survived against total annihilation by Anti-Matter. The expansion of the Universe started acceleration about 7 billion years ago and the Universe is being ripped apart. The culprit is Dark Energy, a mysterious energy multiplying in vacuum. I will present evidence behind these startling discoveries and discuss what we may learn in the near future.
Read more
We have learned a lot recently about how the Universe evolved in 13.8 billion years since the Big Bang. More than 80% of matter in the Universe is mysterious Dark Matter, which made stars and galaxies to form. The newly discovered Higgs-boson became frozen into the Universe a trillionth of a second after the Big Bang and brought order to the Universe. Yet we still do not know how ordinary matter (atoms) survived against total annihilation by Anti-Matter. The expansion of the Universe started acceleration about 7 billion years ago and the Universe is being ripped apart. The culprit is Dark Energy, a mysterious energy multiplying in vacuum. I will present evidence behind these startling discoveries and discuss what we may learn in the near future.
This course is offered in English.
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What's inside
Syllabus
From Daily Life to the Big Bang
Understanding the Universe in which we live and how to probe it can begin with simple daily life experiences such as night and day and the four seasons. Starting from these observations, we will take a journey from our local Earth at the present time all the way to the edge of the universe and back to its birth, learning the techniques and findings in modern physics that provide us this understanding.
Read more
Syllabus
From Daily Life to the Big Bang
Understanding the Universe in which we live and how to probe it can begin with simple daily life experiences such as night and day and the four seasons. Starting from these observations, we will take a journey from our local Earth at the present time all the way to the edge of the universe and back to its birth, learning the techniques and findings in modern physics that provide us this understanding.
Read more
Birth of Elements and Higgs Boson
We are made of chemical elements. So one of the fundamental questions “where do we come from?” leads to another question: “how were elements born?”. This is related to the Higgs Boson, an important particle in answering this question which remained elusive until its discovery was recently announced on July 4, 2012. In this module, we will learn recent research outcomes on these topics.
Dark Matter and Anti-Matter
In this module, we will learn about dark matter and anti-matter -- some of the more mysterious sides of the Universe. We know dark matter played an important role in the formation of stars and galaxies, but much of properties are still unknown to us. In another strange mystery, we will see how the beginning of the universe started with equal amounts of matter and anti-matter, yet somehow only matter (which we are composed of!) survived.
Inflation and Dark Energy
At the very beginning, the Universe exponentially expanded during a period known as the cosmic inflation. Recent studies suggested that the Universe has entered into another stage of expansion, considered to be caused by 'mysterious' dark energy. In this module, we will learn about inflation, dark energy, and the possible fates of our Universe.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores the evolution of the Universe since its inception through Big Bang theory, but does not explicitly cover Quantum Mechanics at length
Teaches the origins of elements through the exploration of Higgs Boson, the formation of stars and galaxies through dark matter, and the contrasting properties of matter and anti-matter
Examines the exponential expansion of the Universe through the concept of cosmic inflation and the continuing expansion attributed to mysterious dark energy, providing insight into the potential fate of our Universe
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Save From the Big Bang to Dark Energy to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Engaging intro to cosmology
Learners say this course is a well-organized, engaging course that provides a nice introduction to cosmology. Students report that the course assumes high familiarity with high school physics and calculus to complete its advanced track and recommend it especially for those with prior knowledge in physics or mathematics. The lectures are noted to be clear and well-paced and students also appreciate having access to three levels of difficulty for the problem sets. Students also appreciate that the professor is knowledgeable and friendly.
Clear lectures.
"The professor does a great job in turning difficult concepts more clear and easier to understand!"
Well-organized.
"This is a nice introduction to cosmological problems, but it's more of an advanced introduction"
Multiple levels of difficulty for problem sets
"Problem sets have 3 levels of diffculty ranging from fundamental idea, to calculus based answers."
Assumes familiarity with high school physics and calculus.
"This course is great but it assumes high familiarity with high school physics and calculus to complete its advance track."
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 From the Big Bang to Dark Energy with these
activities:
Read and summarize “The Elegant Universe”
Show steps
Background material on cosmology and particle physics that complements the course material
View
The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and summarize a chapter of the book each week
-
Prepare a short presentation on the main ideas of the book
Practice modeling the Big Bang
Show steps
Review the mathematics used to model the expansion of the Universe
Show steps
-
Derive Hubble's law and describe its implications
-
Use the Friedmann equations to describe the geometry of the expanding Universe
-
Calculate the age and size of the Universe using observational data
Participate in a study group or online forum
Show steps
Discuss the course material with peers and ask questions to enhance understanding.
Show steps
-
Find a study group or online forum
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve practice problems on astrophysics and cosmology
Show steps
Practice solving problems related to the topics covered in the course
Show steps
-
Find practice problems online or in textbooks
-
Solve the problems and check your answers
Create a visual representation of the evolution of the Universe
Show steps
Create a visual representation of the evolution of the Universe and identify the key milestones
Show steps
-
Choose a suitable software or online tool
-
Gather data on the key milestones in the evolution of the Universe
-
Design and create a visual representation of the data
Volunteer as a tutor or mentor for a younger student
Show steps
Help others understand the concepts of cosmology and astrophysics
Show steps
-
Find a tutoring or mentoring opportunity
-
Prepare lesson plans and materials
-
Teach the concepts to the student
Write a research paper on a recent discovery in cosmology
Show steps
Conduct research and write a paper on a recent discovery in cosmology
Show steps
-
Identify a recent discovery in cosmology
-
Review the relevant literature
-
Write a research paper that summarizes the discovery and its implications
Read and summarize “The Elegant Universe”
Show steps
Background material on cosmology and particle physics that complements the course material
View
The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize a chapter of the book each week
- Prepare a short presentation on the main ideas of the book
Practice modeling the Big Bang
Show steps
Review the mathematics used to model the expansion of the Universe
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Derive Hubble's law and describe its implications
- Use the Friedmann equations to describe the geometry of the expanding Universe
- Calculate the age and size of the Universe using observational data
Participate in a study group or online forum
Show steps
Discuss the course material with peers and ask questions to enhance understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or online forum
- Participate in discussions and ask questions
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve practice problems on astrophysics and cosmology
Show steps
Practice solving problems related to the topics covered in the course
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems online or in textbooks
- Solve the problems and check your answers
Create a visual representation of the evolution of the Universe
Show steps
Create a visual representation of the evolution of the Universe and identify the key milestones
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a suitable software or online tool
- Gather data on the key milestones in the evolution of the Universe
- Design and create a visual representation of the data
Volunteer as a tutor or mentor for a younger student
Show steps
Help others understand the concepts of cosmology and astrophysics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a tutoring or mentoring opportunity
- Prepare lesson plans and materials
- Teach the concepts to the student
Write a research paper on a recent discovery in cosmology
Show steps
Conduct research and write a paper on a recent discovery in cosmology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a recent discovery in cosmology
- Review the relevant literature
- Write a research paper that summarizes the discovery and its implications
Career center
Learners who complete From the Big Bang to Dark Energy will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Cosmologist
Cosmologist
Cosmologists study the origin and evolution of the universe. They use telescopes and other instruments to collect data and develop theories about the Big Bang, the formation of galaxies, and the nature of dark energy. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides cosmologists with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help cosmologists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research in this field.
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicists study the physical properties of the universe and its constituent parts, including stars, galaxies, and dark matter. They use telescopes and other instruments to collect data and develop theories about the origin and evolution of the universe. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides astrophysicists with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology, including the Big Bang theory, the formation of galaxies, and the nature of dark energy. The course will help astrophysicists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research in this field.
Astronomer
Astronomer
Astronomers study the universe and its contents, including stars, galaxies, and planets. They use telescopes and other instruments to collect data and develop theories about the origin and evolution of the universe. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides astronomers with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology, including the Big Bang theory, the formation of galaxies, and the nature of dark energy. The course will help astronomers to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research in this field.
Theoretical Physicist
Theoretical Physicist
Theoretical physicists develop and test theories about the fundamental laws of nature. They use mathematics and computer simulations to study the behavior of matter and energy and to develop new theories about the universe. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides theoretical physicists with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology, including the Big Bang theory, the formation of galaxies, and the nature of dark energy. The course will help theoretical physicists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research in this field.
Particle Physicist
Particle Physicist
Particle physicists study the fundamental particles that make up matter and the forces that act between them. They use particle accelerators and other instruments to study the interactions of particles and develop theories about the nature of matter and energy. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides particle physicists with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology, including the Big Bang theory, the formation of galaxies, and the nature of dark energy. The course will help particle physicists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research in this field.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science writers communicate complex scientific concepts to a general audience. They write articles, books, and other materials that explain scientific discoveries and their implications for society. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides science writers with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help science writers to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to write clearly and accurately about complex scientific topics.
Science Educator
Science Educator
Science educators teach science to students of all ages. They develop and implement lesson plans, conduct experiments, and assess student learning. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides science educators with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help science educators to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to teach science effectively.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum curators plan and manage exhibits that educate the public about science and history. They research and acquire artifacts, design exhibits, and write educational materials. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides museum curators with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help museum curators to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create engaging and informative exhibits about science.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documents that explain complex technical information. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides technical writers with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help technical writers to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to write clearly and accurately about complex scientific topics.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists preserve and manage historical records. They work in libraries, museums, and other institutions. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides archivists with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help archivists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to preserve and manage records related to cosmology and related topics.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. They work in libraries, schools, and other institutions. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides librarians with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help librarians to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to assist patrons with research on cosmology and related topics.
Risk Analyst
Risk Analyst
Risk analysts assess and manage risks for businesses and organizations. They identify potential risks, develop strategies to mitigate risks, and implement risk management plans. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides risk analysts with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help risk analysts to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and assess risks related to cosmology and related technologies.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorney
Patent attorneys help inventors protect their intellectual property. They file and prosecute patents, and represent clients in patent litigation. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides patent attorneys with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help patent attorneys to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and protect inventions related to cosmology and related technologies.
Science Policy Analyst
Science Policy Analyst
Science policy analysts advise policymakers on the scientific and technological issues facing society. They research and analyze scientific data, and develop policy recommendations. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides science policy analysts with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help science policy analysts to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and advise on policies related to cosmology and related technologies.
Investment Analyst
Investment Analyst
Investment analysts evaluate and recommend investments. They research companies, industries, and economic trends, and make recommendations to clients on how to invest their money. This course, From the Big Bang to Dark Energy, provides investment analysts with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of cosmology. The course will help investment analysts to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and evaluate investments in cosmology and related technologies.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nl9gbu/from
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
From the Big Bang to Dark Energy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern cosmology, covering topics such as the Big Bang, dark matter, dark energy, and the fate of the universe. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field of cosmology and for anyone interested in learning more about the fundamental nature of the universe.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to particle physics, covering topics such as the Standard Model, the Higgs boson, and the search for new physics. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the fundamental particles that make up the universe.
Save
Comprehensive and challenging exploration of the fundamental questions of physics and cosmology. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the nature of reality and the search for a theory of everything.
Save
Classic introduction to cosmology and the fundamental questions of physics. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the nature of reality and the search for a theory of everything.
Save
Provides a detailed account of the discovery of the Higgs boson, one of the most important scientific discoveries of the 21st century. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history of particle physics and the role of the Higgs boson in our understanding of the universe.
Save
Provides a detailed account of the theory of cosmic inflation, one of the most important and successful theories in modern cosmology. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history of the universe and the role of inflation in our understanding of its evolution.
Thought-provoking exploration of the nature of reality and the implications for our understanding of the universe. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the fundamental questions of physics and cosmology.
Thought-provoking exploration of the fundamental questions of physics and cosmology. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the nature of reality and the search for a theory of everything.
Thought-provoking exploration of the nature of reality and the implications for our understanding of the universe. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the fundamental questions of physics and cosmology.
Save
Fascinating exploration of the fundamental questions of physics and cosmology. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the nature of reality and the search for a theory of everything.
Fascinating exploration of the possibility of parallel universes. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the nature of reality and the search for a theory of everything.
Classic introduction to astronomy and cosmology. It great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the universe and our place in it.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nl9gbu/from
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Effort
2-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
The University of Tokyo
Instructor
Hitoshi Murayama
Language
English
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Good to know
Explores the evolution of the Universe since its inception through Big Bang theory, but does not explicitly cover Quantum Mechanics at length
Teaches the origins of elements through the exploration of Higgs Boson, the formation of stars and galaxies through dark matter, and the contrasting properties of matter and anti-matter
Examines the exponential expansion of the Universe through the concept of cosmic inflation and the continuing expansion attributed to mysterious dark energy, providing insight into the potential fate of our Universe
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