Nuclear Physics: From Rutherford to Exploding Stars

 

When one first thinks of nuclear physics research, we might imagine trying to solve problems related with building the next generation of reactors or, especially if you watched Oppenheimer, work related to weapons research. However, here we will focus on the nuclear physics is at the heart of some of the most awe-inspiring processes in the universe. From the fusion reactions that power stars to the cataclysmic explosions of supernovae, nuclear astrophysics helps us understand how elements are forged and how the universe has evolved.

We will discuss how experiments on Earth—using particle accelerators and state-of-the-art detector technology —complement astronomical observations, bringing us closer to answering fundamental questions about the origins of matter and the forces that bind protons and neutrons together. I also want to discuss how this ‘blue sky’ type research has led to ground-breaking applications, including nuclear energy, medical imaging, and the quest for fusion power.