D'un infini à l'autre - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit

École Polytechnique via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/physique-2-infinis-liens

Introduction

### Course Review: "D'un infini à l'autre - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit" If you have ever gazed at the stars and pondered the immense scale of the universe, or if you have been fascinated by the intricacies of the microscopic world, then the course "D'un infini à l'autre - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit" is one that you should explore. Offered on Coursera, this course takes you on a remarkable journey from the smallest particles of matter to the vast cosmos, revealing the profound connections that exist between these two extremes. #### Overview The course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of both the infinitely large and the infinitely small. Led by a team of passionate physicists, you will gain insights into how the structure of matter at minuscule scales relates to the organization of the universe at grand distances. This compelling course also delves into the scientific tools employed to study these phenomena, making it a rich educational experience for anyone with a curious mind. #### Course Content The syllabus is thoughtfully divided into four modules that guide you through various foundational concepts: 1. **Les notions de base (Basic Concepts)**: This initial module sets the stage by introducing the parallels between the infinitesimal and the astronomical. It highlights the shared concepts and techniques that can be observed in both realms, with a particular focus on light, one of the most fundamental phenomena in physics. 2. **Des messagers de l'infiniment petit venus du cosmos (Messengers of the Infinitely Small from the Cosmos)**: Here, participants will explore intriguing phenomena like neutrinos, cosmic rays, and atomic nuclei. This module not only reveals how these tiny messengers inform us about astrophysical events, but also connects them to the nature of the infinitely small. 3. **Les particules élémentaires et l'évolution de l'Univers (Elementary Particles and the Evolution of the Universe)**: In this segment, the course examines various aspects of matter, including ordinary matter (protons and neutrons), antimatter, and dark matter, along with their roles in the universe's evolution since the Big Bang. 4. **Comprendre les deux infinis (Understanding the Two Infinites)**: The final module synthesizes the insights from previous lessons. It focuses on common theoretical concepts and experimental techniques, highlighting the convergences that exist between the infinitely large and the infinitely small. #### Review and Recommendations The course "D'un infini à l'autre" offers an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience. It is suitable for anyone, whether you are a complete beginner or someone with a solid background in physics. The enthusiasm of the instructors is infectious, making complex topics accessible and relatable. The course employs an array of multimedia resources, ensuring that learning is interactive and varied. One of the standout features is how it emphasizes the interconnectedness of different physical phenomena. Rather than viewing the universe and the quantum world as separate entities, this course fosters a holistic understanding of physics that is particularly refreshing. In terms of structure, the blend of theoretical insights and practical applications allows for an enriching learning experience. Additionally, the self-paced nature of the course makes it convenient for learners with varying schedules. I wholeheartedly recommend "D'un infini à l'autre" to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of the universe and the fundamental particles that constitute it. Whether you are a student, a science enthusiast, or a lifelong learner, this course promises to ignite your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for the wonders of physics. Embark on this cosmic journey and uncover the marvels that exist from one infinity to another!

Syllabus

Les notions de base

Ce module introduit les aspects par lesquels l'infiniment petit et l'infiniment grand, bien que très différents, se ressemblent, tant par les concepts que par les techniques. Il s'intéresse ensuite à l'un des phénomènes les plus courants des deux infinis, à savoir la lumière.

Des messagers de l'infiniment petit venus du cosmos

Ce module présente différents phénomènes qui nous renseignent sur des phénomènes astrophysiques, mais qui ont aussi leur intérêt propre du point de vue de l'infiniment petit : ce sont les neutrinos, les rayons cosmiques et les noyaux atomiques.

Les particules élémentaires et l'évolution de l'Univers

Ce module décrit différents aspects de la matière et le rôle qu'ils ont joué au cours de l'évolution de l'Univers depuis le Big Bang, que ce soit la matière ordinaire (faite de protons et de neutrons), l'antimatière ou bien encore la matière noire.

Comprendre les deux infinis

Ce module s'intéresse aux aspects communs de l'infiniment grand et de l'infiniment petit, en termes de concepts théoriques mais aussi de techniques expérimentales, illustrant ainsi les convergences entre ces deux infinis.