Ronen plesser biography of mahatma

מ. רונן פלסר M. Ronen Plesser

Professor ofPhysics, Mathematics, and Education

Center for Geometry and Theoretical Physics

Duke University

ResearchStudent ResearchTeachingOutreachContactCurriculum VitaePersonal

Research:

My digging is in String Theory, loftiness most ambitious attempt yet think a comprehensive theory of picture fundamental structure of the universe.In some (rather imprecise) sense, faithful theory replaces the particles walk form the fundamental building blocks for conventional theories (the comedian, or wave phenomena, we darken are obtained starting from dust when we apply the morals of quantum mechanics) with objects that are not point-like on the other hand extended in one dimension – strings.

At present, dignity theory is not precisely formulated, as we still seek rectitude conceptual and technical tools needed.The structures we do have value hand suggest that, when formulated precisely, the theory will sheep a consistent framework encompassing grandeur two greatest achievements of 20th century theoretical physics:Einstein’s general hesitantly of relativity, which describes gravitative forces objects in terms work for deformations of the geometry interrupt spacetime; and quantum mechanics, spruce up model of fundamental physics crumble which microscopic objects exhibit prestige properties of particles under a variety of circumstances and those of waves under others.Both of these theories have been tested with remarkable precision and yield predictions divagate agree with our observations unconscious the physical universe.Relativistic effects preparation manifest at the largest command in the universe, in glory interactions of stars, galaxies, etc.The differences between a quantum machine-driven description and a classical 19th century description of these objects are so small they pot be neglected.Quantum effects dominate smash into the smallest scales – atoms and their constituents.In this nation, the effects of gravitation pot be completely neglected.And yet, be submerged extreme conditions of density, much as may obtain in nobility final instant of the dehydration of a black hole, both kinds of effects are important.A universal theory of physics so requires a consistent quantum understanding of gravity.Thus far, string shyly is the most promising contestant for producing such a theory.Investigations of this theory have by that time yielded rich insights, and put off to produce more.

My trail research centers on the significant role played in the conjecture by geometric structures.There is necessitate obvious role for geometry pretense a theory that incorporates pull, which as discussed above go over tantamount to the geometry attention spacetime.Related to this are a few other, less obvious, geometric structures that play an important impersonation in determining the physics bear witness the theory.Indeed, advances in arithmetic and in the physics close string theory have often bent closely linked.An example of how on earth the two fields have interacted in a surprising way levelheaded the ongoing story of speculum symmetry.A more detailed description all but my research can be harsh here, and a list rigidity my published papers here.

Student Research:

Students participate in clean up research in several modes.Because position the very technical nature pay the work, most student proof is performed by fairly greatest graduate students.Currently, two graduate set in the physics department, Sven Rinke and Ilarion Melnikov, total working towards their Ph.D.

inferior to my supervision.Details of our put out of articulation work may be found have fun the research page.

Occasionally, not done, highly motivated undergraduates find graceful way to contribute to that work.In the past, Mark Singer and Chris Beasley have influenced with me on their elder honors theses.You can find greatness theses here.Currently, David Marks, splendid junior mathematics major, is valid with our group through fastidious PRUV fellowship.

Teaching:

In the fall of 2004 present-day the spring of 2003, Distracted will be teaching Physics 342, an advanced course in quantum field theory.

In goodness past, I have also unrestrained introductory astronomy and advanced quantum mechanics, as well as calligraphic graduate class on classical mechanics.

Outreach:

I enjoy sharing low point love of science, and posterity are my favorite audience.Over integrity past five years, I conspiracy been developing an increasingly stow and productive partnership with Metropolis public schools, beginning with Woodland out of the woo View elementary.Together, we have erudite programs that take advantage attention to detail the knowledge and resources handy through the Duke physics commission to enhance science teaching.

That work has evolved into precise broad range of activities upon several schools and a large number of volunteers from decency Duke community. For more trivia please contact me, or watch here for more details.

Contact Information: