Geometry, Topology, and Physics
Description
Geometry and topology enter into physics at many levels. This discussion will begin with Maxwell’s equations, as taught in introductory physics, and how they are related to the Gauss-Bonnet Theorem and the Gauss linking number. Next, Alvarez will introduce quantum mechanics and explain how Maxwell’s equations are related to topological Chern classes via Dirac’s charge quantization condition for magnetic monopoles. The talk will conclude with a discussion of fermions, as well as the Atiyah-Singer Index Theorem and its uses in quantum field as well as string theories.
Date of Event
November 14, 2012 12 - 1:00 PM
Location
Mailman-Hollywood Building, Room 310, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale (main campus)
NSU News Release Link
http://nsunews.nova.edu/trio-topics-set-mathematics-colloquium-series-talk-nov-14/
Geometry, Topology, and Physics
Mailman-Hollywood Building, Room 310, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale (main campus)
Geometry and topology enter into physics at many levels. This discussion will begin with Maxwell’s equations, as taught in introductory physics, and how they are related to the Gauss-Bonnet Theorem and the Gauss linking number. Next, Alvarez will introduce quantum mechanics and explain how Maxwell’s equations are related to topological Chern classes via Dirac’s charge quantization condition for magnetic monopoles. The talk will conclude with a discussion of fermions, as well as the Atiyah-Singer Index Theorem and its uses in quantum field as well as string theories.
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/mathematics_colloquium/ay_2012-2013/events/10
Presenter Bio
Orlando Alvarez has a Ph.D. and teaches at University of Miami