Ever wondered what the universe is really made of? Is everything particles, waves, or something even stranger? Welcome to Quantum Field Theory (QFT) 101, where we explore the fundamental framework physicists use to describe the tiniest building blocks of reality. In this crash course, we’ll start with a quick review of quantum mechanics and special relativity, then dive into the key ideas of QFT: 1. What is a field, and why is everything in nature actually a quantum field? 2. How do particles like electrons and photons emerge from fields? 3. What’s the deal with Feynman diagrams and virtual particles? 4. Why does QFT successfully describe the fundamental forces—except gravity? We’ll use intuitive explanations, and some light math to get a taste of how physicists describe the relativistic quantum world. By the end, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for why QFT is one of the most powerful and mind-bending theories in physics! No prior knowledge of QFT required, but familiarity with AP calculus and AP physics would be good. If you know linear algebra, basic quantum mechanics (Schrödinger’s equation, wavefunctions), and relativity (E=mc²), that would be fantastic, but no way necessary. If you’re curious about the fundamental nature of the universe, this class is for you! We are also running the second course called "Quantum Gravity 101: From Matrices to Gravity to Strings to Nuclei". If you are interested, we highly recommend you to sign up for both classes!

Four mysteries: A. Mathematicians have for a very long time studied random matrices. However, it was not clear what they had to do with the universe. B. Physicists have for a very long time tried to reconcile gravity with quantum mechanics. One of the issues was that they had to describe an integral over various spacetime geometries. But this was very difficult. C. In the late 20th century, a new prospective theory of everything was discovered. It was called string theory. However, string theory was very difficult to teach to high school students. Somehow someone had to find a way to introduce the topic using a toy example that would be accessible to high school students. D. Physicists discovered quantum chromodynamics, our best theory describing the forces between the subatomic particles in atomic nuclei. But the theory was very complicated. Theoretical computations seemed impossible. Someone had to find a method to do such computations in an elegant way. In this class, all four mysteries will be simultaneously resolved, while leaving room open for further inquiry. The reason the class is exciting is because we will not rely on terse explanations to speed through material inaccessible to high school students. We will be patient and clear and precise. The excitement comes from seeing how far we can go!

Alexander the Great is one of the most revered military leaders in history. His campaigns expanded his empire at an unprecedented rate and using his military genius, he swiftly vanquished his foes. But how exactly did Alexander do so?! Come to "Alexander's Battlefield Brilliance" as we delve into the specifics of how Alexander achieved his remarkable victories.