physics

WSU physicists contribute to gravitational waves finding

PULLMAN, Wash. – For the first time, scientists have observed ripples in the fabric of space-time called gravitational waves, arriving at the earth from a cataclysmic event in the distant universe. This confirms a major prediction of Albert Einstein’s 1915 general theory of relativity and opens an unprecedented new window onto the cosmos.

WSU physics and astronomy colloquium

Tuesday, Oct. 15, 4:10 p.m., Webster 17 Dr. Paula Heron, University of Washington. Please meet our guest speaker and share refreshments at 3:45 p.m. in the foyer on floor G above the lecture hall. Is “interactive teaching” sufficient to promote conceptual development in physics?   Contact: Matthew McCluskey, mattmcc@wsu.edu

Kids learn physics, energy efficiency basics

  Children learn some basic concepts of physics by using exhibits designed to also teach home energy efficiency. (Photo by Kathleen Ryan, WSU)   PULLMAN, Wash. – An innovative collaborative project is teaching young people the basics of physics. Using simple models, an interdisciplinary team is simultaneously opening doors to more sustainable, energy-efficient homes. Project […]

Physicists take first steps to harness antimatter

Video – “Antimatter – harnessing the power of positrons” “This morning, NASA successfully launched the world’s first gamma ray shuttle to the galactic center of the Milky Way. Once there, geo-astronauts say they can mine and harvest enough raw antimatter to power Earth’s energy needs for the next decade. Unfortunately, they won’t be back for […]

James Gimzewski guest for Stephenson Distinguished Lecture

The department of Physics and Astronomy’s Stephenson Distinguished Lecture will feature James K. Gimzewski, a leading authority on nanotechnology research. The lecture, Nano Tips: Exploring This Planet, Your Body and Beyond, will be on March 26 at 7 p.m. in the Webster Physical Science Building, Room 16. Gimzewski is a distinguished professor in the Department […]