The hottest Physics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics

Quantum Quandaries

do clouds feel vertigo? • 19 implied HN points • 21 Jun 24
🔬 Science Quantum Computing Physics Education Technology Games
  1. Quantum Country is a great book for learning about quantum computing. It's easy to understand if you know some basic math.
  2. Thinking about problems in more than two dimensions can open up new ideas. It can be really helpful to have extra complexity in your thinking.
  3. There’s a board game called Entanglion that teaches quantum logic in a fun way. It's a creative way to see quantum concepts in action.

O-Day - NOON

Remote View • 157 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🔬 Science Physics Technology History Symbolism Archaeology
  1. There is a livestream event on Feb 14, 2023 at 21:00 CET, so review previous materials beforehand.
  2. The post includes a list of references discussing various topics like solitons, plasmoids, and symbols from different cultures.
  3. The content hints at connections between ancient symbols, cosmic powers, and historical artifacts, suggesting deeper meanings or connections.
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All Part of Science's Rich Tapestry

Counting Atoms • 58 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🔬 Science History Biography Physics Politics Innovation
  1. The book 'The Making of the Atomic Bomb' by Richard Rhodes provides a comprehensive history of the Manhattan Project and includes a lot of vivid scientific details.
  2. Leo Szilard plays a central role in the story, from inspiring the idea of nuclear chain reactions to trying to prevent the use of atomic bombs.
  3. The book can be overwhelming due to the multitude of people and organizations involved, but it offers a rich tapestry of science and history.

Possible states the earth can evolve to

Climate Water Project • 117 implied HN points • 27 Apr 23
🔬 Science Climate Ecosystems Physics
  1. There are different stable states that the ecosystem+hydrological system can evolve to, given large enough perturbations.
  2. Vegetation affects the climate and vice versa, leading to different stable states like forests or grasslands.
  3. The earth can have metastable states with ice or more vegetation, flipping between them due to factors like sunlight and noise in the climate system.

The devil is old

Wednesday Wisdom • 113 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Programming Mathematics Physics Concurrency Software Development
  1. Experience and age often bring wisdom, knowledge, and a unique perspective.
  2. In technology, while tools and capabilities have evolved, fundamental principles like people dynamics, math, and physics remain constant.
  3. Despite advancements, people still struggle with basic math, concurrent programming, and effective communication in group settings.

Top 5 blockers to establish a foothold on Mars

Space Ambition • 259 implied HN points • 09 Dec 22
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astrobiology Environmental Science Physics Engineering
  1. To go to Mars, we really need to improve how we use fuel and build bigger rockets. Right now, our technology just isn’t strong enough.
  2. Living in space for a long time means we need larger spaceships with essential comforts like food and water. Making these spaceships in space instead of on Earth might be a smart solution.
  3. Radiation on Mars is a big health risk since it doesn't have a magnetic field like Earth. We need to find ways to protect astronauts from this danger while they explore.

Quantum Hardware Course!

Quantum Formalism • 99 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🔬 Science Quantum Computing Quantum Mechanics Physics Education
  1. Quantum Hardware Course offered by Zaiku Group covers various quantum hardware models like Quantum Optical Models, Ion Traps, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, and Superconductivity.
  2. Prerequisites for the course include knowledge of quantum mechanics and quantum optics concepts, with references to specific readings.
  3. Enrollment for live sessions and certification in the course require commitment and completion of the entire program by applicants.

Driving fans

Only Wonder Knows • 98 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🔬 Science Physics Engineering Devices Specifications
  1. Understanding basic physics is crucial when dealing with fan systems.
  2. The relationship between air flow and air pressure in fan systems is not always linear.
  3. When selecting a fan for a system, consider factors like power consumption, flow specifications, and current consumption.

Time in a timeless universe (part 2)

Sam’s Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🔬 Science Physics Philosophy Quantum
  1. Newton introduced the concept of absolute time, separate from change that physical systems undergo.
  2. Absolute time is an ethereal concept outside our universes, while clock time is a more physical representation of time.
  3. Barbour proposed a theory of time where different 'times' are viewed as different 'worlds' coexisting in a timeless block.

Nuclear Fusion: The State of Play

State of the Future • 34 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🔬 Science Energy Technology Physics Innovation Research
  1. Nuclear fusion has great potential for clean energy, but it still faces big challenges like cost and technical hurdles. Commercial fusion might not be realistic until around 2040, despite recent progress.
  2. Different methods of achieving fusion exist, each with their own pros and cons. For example, magnetic confinement is well-researched but expensive, while inertial confinement uses lasers but has its own limitations.
  3. Investment in fusion technology is growing, with billions already being put in by both private companies and governments. This means, even though it's a tough path, there's hope for fusion as a key player in future energy strategies.

The Devil and the Cerulean Sweater

Maximum Effort, Minimum Reward • 127 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🔬 Science Physics Color Theory Atmospheric science Optics
  1. The color cerulean comes from the Latin word for sky and should represent the color of the sky.
  2. Rayleigh scattering explains why the sky appears blue - shorter wavelengths scatter more.
  3. Calculating the color of Anne Hathaway's cerulean sweater using physics resulted in a color close to the original, proving Meryl Streep's character in 'The Devil Wears Prada' was correct.

From Ore to Core

Doomberg • 115 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🔬 Science Nuclear Energy Physics Technology
  1. This post discusses the importance of nuclear energy as a baseload power source.
  2. The session with physicist James Krellenstein provides insights into the technology and its value chain.
  3. The content is exclusively available for subscribers in the Doomberg Pro plan.

Live Critical Mass Interactive Zoom Q&A: January 6th @ 4 PM Pacific Time

Critical Mass • 2 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🔬 Science Physics Astronomy Math Technology Education
  1. There will be a live Zoom Q&A session on January 6th at 4 PM Pacific Time for paid subscribers. It's a chance to connect and ask any questions you have.
  2. These events are exclusively for paid subscribers, and your support helps continue important programs like the Origins Podcast.
  3. The goal of the Origins Project is to give people a better understanding of their place in the universe and share ideas that shape our world.

One MILLION Stories!

Something interesting • 4 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🔬 Science Physics Mathematics Engineering Astronomy Geography
  1. Building a skyscraper with a million stories would be huge. It would have to cover a massive area and be taller than any building we have today.
  2. Elevators in such a tall building would take forever to reach the top. They might need to be super advanced and comfortable, like mini-hotels.
  3. The universe is really big, and we are very small. Even the tallest buildings are tiny compared to the whole Earth and space around us.

Double Bubbles

Pershmail • 58 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🔬 Science Mathematics Geometry Physics
  1. Double bubbles minimize surface area by using interesting film connections.
  2. For fencing in different areas with minimal material, the double bubble shape is ideal.
  3. The standard double bubble minimizes perimeter between two areas.

Sorry Folks There Aren't Any Space Aliens

Dilan’s Newsletter • 58 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🔬 Science Space Physics Astronomy
  1. Science is not a religion, it relies on observations and experiments for truth
  2. The vastness of the universe and the limits of the speed of light make it highly unlikely for humans to ever come into contact with extraterrestrial intelligence
  3. Despite the fascination with space aliens, there is no scientific evidence supporting their existence or visits to Earth

Links for 2024-02-10

Axis of Ordinary • 19 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🔬 Science AI Neuroscience Physics
  1. AI advancements are progressing rapidly, with more agents leading to better performance in Language Models.
  2. Neuroscience is evolving with innovations like sensors enhancing sensation in prosthetic limbs and brain control enabled by neural networks.
  3. Physics research reveals insights such as gravity showcasing the strong force in the proton and implications of linearity in quantum mechanics.

Calibrating circuits

Only Wonder Knows • 19 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🔬 Science Physics Chemistry Engineering Technology Research
  1. Calibration of circuits can be a useful solution but it's important to know when it is necessary and when it's not.
  2. Understanding how components like sensors and resistors behave in different conditions is crucial before considering calibration.
  3. Before deciding to calibrate electronic components, a detailed technical and economic analysis should be conducted to ensure it is a suitable solution.

A review of "Don’t forget the boundary problem..."

Unstabler Ontology • 19 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🔬 Science Consciousness Brain Physics Cognitive Science Metaphysics
  1. The article discusses the binding problem in consciousness theories, which is about combining different features into a unified awareness.
  2. Functionalism is challenged by the boundary problem, questioning why there are limits to our conscious experiences.
  3. Electromagnetic theories of consciousness are explored, considering the role of EM fields in demarcating conscious entities and potential solutions using field topology.

Sphericons

Pershmail • 39 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🔬 Science Mathematics Geometry Physics
  1. The sphericon is a shape that wobbles when twisted, and it's made of two pieces resembling bicones.
  2. The sphericon has square dimensions and a 90 degree angle from one end extending down.
  3. Generalizations of the sphericon, called polycons, roll in a wobbly way and include shapes like hexacons, octacons, and decacons.

1517 Does Astronomy & Astrophysics: The Physics of Supernovas

1517 Fund • 121 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🔬 Science Astronomy Astrophysics Physics Technology Energy
  1. Supernovas are powerful explosions from single stars that can outshine entire galaxies, impacting human understanding and progress.
  2. Advancements in astronomy and technology, like robotic telescopes and big data analysis, are revolutionizing our exploration of the universe.
  3. Nature's energy events, like neutron star mergers creating elements, are incredibly powerful and creative, shaping our world and existence.

The Physics of Intelligence

Breaking Smart • 99 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
🔬 Science Physics AI Intelligence Systems Computation
  1. The physics of intelligence is not substrate dependent, similar to the physics of flight.
  2. The key questions in understanding the physics of intelligence relate to attention, memory, and the relationship between intelligence and information.
  3. Intelligence is not just about computation, but also about embodiment and specific interactions within the universe.

Fundamental physics, new drug delivery & hair growth strategies

The Strategy Toolkit • 8 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🔬 Science Physics Neuroscience Technology Research
  1. Condensed matter physics has influenced the development of neural networks, showing that physics concepts can explain complex systems.
  2. John Hopfield created a model of neural networks that simplifies computation without focusing too much on biology.
  3. This model can remember information by using energy states, similar to how memories might work in real biological systems.

Chopper amplifiers: history and present

Only Wonder Knows • 19 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🔬 Science Electronics Engineering Physics Circuits Amplifiers
  1. Chopper amplifiers are a technique to reduce DC offset and low frequency noise in amplifiers.
  2. Historically, chopper amplifiers have been implemented using innovative methods like optical chopping with cadmium sulfide light-dependent resistors.
  3. Contemporary engineers can refer to Jim Williams' design for an ultrahigh performance instrumentation amplifier that resembles the old chopper amplifier concept.

Geometric Constraints on Computing

Bzogramming • 30 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Computing Physics Architecture Optimization Future Trends
  1. The physical constraints of computing, such as distance and volume, significantly impact performance and efficiency.
  2. Parallelism at different scales within a program can affect latency and performance, offering opportunities for optimization.
  3. Considerations like curvature of computation, square-cube law, and heat generation play a crucial role in the design and limitations of computer chips.

Non-Newtonian Computing?

Bzogramming • 30 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Computing Physics Cryptography Algorithms AI
  1. Physics has alternative framings like Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, which could inspire new ways of viewing computation.
  2. Reversible computing, preserving information by having bijective gates, is crucial for energy efficiency and future computing technologies.
  3. Studying constraint solvers and NP-complete problems can lead to insights for accelerating search algorithms and developing new computing approaches.

Links #5

Splitting Infinity • 19 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🔬 Science Technology Climate Biology Physics Health
  1. Developing countries like Nigeria and Rwanda are adopting advanced technologies like cryptocurrency and drone networks, showcasing potential for growth.
  2. Innovative solutions like pneumatic canopies for climate control are being considered for equatorial megacities facing heatwaves due to climate change.
  3. Advancements in technology such as gondola systems for cities and improved desalination methods show promise for future urban development and sustainability.

Time response of first order systems

Only Wonder Knows • 19 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🔬 Science Physics Experiments Measurement
  1. When measuring a system's response time, make sure to wait for at least five time constants to reach a stable state.
  2. First order systems have a unique time response that can be calculated using simple expressions.
  3. Extracting the time constant of a system involves analyzing data, normalizing measurements, and ensuring a good fit to confirm the system's behavior.