School of Physics and Astronomy
The physics experience
By Ray Honeysett
Usually, when talking about astronomy, it appears as though all knowledge originated from Europe. This is certainly not the case. Big names like Newton, Hooke, Galileo, and Kepler all fed off of each other’s work, leading to advancements being made but they did not come up with their ideas in a vacuum. In fact, even within Europe many female scientists have had their contributions ignored.
Continue reading “Astronomy Across Europe”
This summer, a big birthday bash was due to commence: the 100th birthday of the King’s Buildings campus! However due to the pandemic, events will be postponed for one year, and KB101 will commence in July 2021.
In July 1920, King George V laid the foundation stone for the first building, the Joseph Black Building, on what was formerly the site of West Mains Farm.
Continue reading “Centenary celebrations”
by Luke Mitchell
Many of us in physics will recognise the name Brewster; especially if you have learned about optics. Sir David Brewster was born in Scotland on 11th December 1781. He was a champion for physics and optics in the 18th century, all self-taught. He was involved in the development of understanding of the laws of light polarisation, polarisation induced by heat and pressure, metallic reflection, biaxial crystals and many more natural light phenomena. He studied Divinity at the University of Edinburgh. He later became Principal of the University in 1859 at the age of 78 until his death in 1868. There is statue of him outside the School of Chemistry.
Continue reading “Symmetries of patterns and lights”
