PBS Space Time Season 2017 Episode 24 Solving the Impossible in Quantum Field Theory

Solving the Impossible in Quantum Field Theory is the twenty-fourth episode of the 2017 season of PBS Space Time. This episode delves into the complex and enigmatic world of quantum field theory, a branch of physics that describes the behavior of elementary particles such as electrons and photons.

The episode is hosted by Matt O'Dowd, a physicist and science communicator who has made a name for himself with his engaging and accessible explanations of complex scientific concepts. In this episode, O'Dowd takes viewers on a journey through the history of quantum field theory, beginning with its origins in the early 20th century with the work of Albert Einstein, Max Planck, and Niels Bohr.

From there, O'Dowd explores the key concepts and mathematical structures that underpin quantum field theory, including the notion of a quantum field, wave-particle duality, and the uncertainty principle. He explains how particles can appear and disappear seemingly out of nowhere, and how they can interact with one another across vast distances in space and time.

Despite its many successes, quantum field theory still remains an incomplete and imperfect framework for understanding the behavior of the universe at the smallest scales. One of the most daunting challenges facing physicists today is the problem of reconciling quantum field theory with another theoretical framework known as general relativity, which describes the behavior of massive objects in the presence of gravity.

In the latter half of the episode, O'Dowd delves deeper into the problems facing physicists as they try to unite quantum field theory and general relativity into a single, unified theory of everything. He explains the concept of renormalization, a technique used to eliminate infinities that arise when making calculations in quantum field theory, and how it has led to some of the most successful predictions in the history of physics.

Finally, O'Dowd explores some of the more speculative and futuristic ideas that have arisen around quantum field theory, such as the possibility of multiple universes, hidden dimensions, and new forms of matter that exist only in the most extreme conditions.

Overall, Solving the Impossible in Quantum Field Theory is a fascinating and accessible exploration of one of the most complex and important theories in modern physics. Whether you're a seasoned physicist or simply a curious science enthusiast, this episode offers a wealth of insights and explanations that are sure to leave you pondering the nature of the universe around us.