Six Easy Pieces of Physics As Applied to Engineering

Webinar details

This webinar offers a rare chance to explore six of the most fascinating topics from The Feynman Lectures on Physics in a simplified, engaging format without requiring a formal mathematics background. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to physics, this session provides an accessible and enriching experience.

This is taken from the book Six Easy Pieces Essentials of Physics by Richard P. Feynman: Explained by its most Brilliant Teacher.

There are six sections;

• Atoms in Motion
• Basic Physics
• Relation of Physics to other Sciences
• Conservation of Energy
• The Theory of Gravitation
• Quantum Behaviour

Five compelling reasons why you should attend this:

1. Understand the Movement of Atoms and Its Impact on Everyday Life
   The first section, Atoms in Motion, delves into the fundamental building blocks of matter and how their motion shapes everything we see and experience. This foundational concept is not only fascinating but also explains real-world phenomena in a way that’s easy to grasp for a general audience.
2. Explore Conservation of Energy in Action
   The Conservation of Energy section breaks down this cornerstone of physics, showing how energy is never lost but transforms from one form to another. Understanding this principle helps in interpreting everything from mechanical systems to renewable energy technologies, making it practical and relevant.
3. Demystify Quantum Behavior Without Complex Math
   The Quantum Behavior section introduces one of the most perplexing and revolutionary ideas in modern science. By attending, you’ll gain an accessible understanding of concepts like wave-particle duality and uncertainty, which underpin technologies like semiconductors, lasers, and quantum computing—presented in a way anyone can comprehend.
   These materials not only showcase the beauty of physics but also connect them to everyday applications and groundbreaking technologies, ensuring an engaging and enlightening experience.
4. Engage in Interactive Learning
   Unlike passive lectures, this webinar incorporates hands-on demonstrations using Python code. Participants can interact with physics concepts in real-time, fostering deeper understanding and offering practical skills that can be applied beyond the session.
5. Broaden Your Horizons Beyond Science
   Richard Feynman’s multidisciplinary approach—spanning science, problem-solving, art, and even music—is an inspiring reminder of the interconnectedness of knowledge. This webinar doesn’t just teach physics; it offers a philosophy of curiosity and innovation that can energize personal and professional growth.

Richard Feynman was one of the most famous and beloved but riveting physicists of the 20th century. He was Professor of Theoretical Physics at the California Institute of Technology and was awarded the Nobel Prize for his work in quantum field theory. Steve Mackay, the presenter, really enjoyed reading (some of) his incredible volume of writings and attending his lectures online. A practical person – he chaired the Challenger Rocket disaster and gave a simple and practical explanation of what caused the crash. He was also a repairer of radios, a picker of locks, an artist, a dancer, a bongo player and a decipherer of Mayan hieroglyphics.

This will be presented in one hour and you will have the opportunity to demonstrate some of the concepts with Python code online.

• The webinar will be recorded and will be sent out to registered attendees afterwards.
• A certificate of attendance will be provided to attendees who request one near the end of the live webinar session.
• Please note: the time stated on this event is in UTC. You will need to convert this to your own time zone.

Key takeaways from this webinar

• A Unique Perspective on Physics
  Explore six fundamental topics from The Feynman Lectures on Physics, including atoms in motion, basic physics, and quantum behavior, presented in an accessible, mathematics-free format for a general audience.
• Richard Feynman’s Legacy
  Gain insights into the life and contributions of Nobel Laureate Richard Feynman, a legendary physicist known for his groundbreaking work in quantum field theory, practical problem-solving, and multidisciplinary interests.
• Interactive Learning with Python
  Participate in a hands-on opportunity to demonstrate key physics concepts using Python code, making the session both engaging and practically applicable.

Related courses

This multi-disciplinary webinar/topic relates to our schools of:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial Automation, Instrumentation and Process Control
• Civil Engineering

To learn more about tuition fees, please click here.

About the presenter

Steve Mackay, EIT’s Dean of Engineering

Dr. Mackay has enjoyed a varied career in engineering, having worked in automation, data acquisition, instrumentation, data communications, and process control throughout Australia, Europe, Africa, and North America over the past 35 years. He has successfully pioneered the application of new technologies in Australia and overseas, installing industrial data communication systems and implementing live online education, (including remote laboratories), for engineering students worldwide.

Steve Mackay has been involved in a range of industries, including power stations, mining, mineral processing, oil/gas/petrochemical plants, and platforms. He has presented courses on industrial data communications, data acquisition, instrumentation, and process control to over 30,000 engineers and technicians worldwide for clients such as NASA, Rolls Royce, and BP. He has also co-authored and edited 25 engineering books that have been published across the world. Steve Mackay is a Fellow of Engineers Australia with a license to practice as a Chemical, Mechanical, and Electrical Chartered Professional Engineer.

As Dean of the Engineering Institute of Technology, Steve Mackay leads the institute in providing micro-credentials and engineering qualifications to over 1500 students per year from 140 countries. He has an unswerving focus on student outcomes and on excellence in education.