Show Notes
In a fascinating deviation from their usual topic, Lisa and Mike delve deep into the world of experimental physics and astrophysics in this episode. Mike tackles a range of mind-bending questions sourced by Lisa from ChatGPT, covering everything from the common misconceptions of relativity and time dilation near the speed of light and black holes, to the immense size of the universe. They also touches on space exploration (Mars colonisation), the mysteries of gravity (gravitational waves), and some truly silly, thought-provoking physics questions about cats, superheroes, and woodchucks.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Time does not actually "slow down" for an object approaching the speed of light; it appears to slow down to an external observer due to relative motion and frames of reference.
To an external observer, an object (like a spaceship) approaching a black hole would appear to slow down and freeze permanently at the event horizon, never crossing it. However, the person inside the spaceship would simply pass through without noticing the horizon.
The universe is "unfathomable" in size, beyond human comprehension. The current estimate for its total lifespan is potentially less than 50 billion years, which is considered a relatively short time in cosmic terms.
Gravitational waves, tiny ripples in spacetime caused by massive collisions (like black holes), were eventually measured using extremely precise laser interferometry technology.
String theory, the idea that everything is made of vibrating strings of energy, is currently unprovable because we lack the technology to observe or measure these incredibly small units.
BEST MOMENTS
"This is a common misconception out there. Relativity, it's all about relative motion from one person to another person or whatever."
“To me, I can just seal straight on through the black hole's event horizon. I don't see anything, I don't notice that. I'm not even aware that the event horizon is there."
“The way I think about time in general is like a river. To quote the great Doctor Who, it's a ‘wibbly-wobbly thing'."
"We're small creatures living on a small rock in a small part of this smallish galaxy, and it feels so big."
"Gravity is always attractive. Gravity pulls things towards each other. There's no such thing as a negative gravity or repelling."
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru.
Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.
Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining
https://www.dermalasetraining.com
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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