TLT 

Description

Some subjects defy easy explanation. For “Quarks to Cosmos,” the challenge involved was complex, even if the point faculty needed to illustrate was simple. In this case, the topic was the parallax effect, and how it can be used to measure distance on a cosmic scale. This visual effect cannot easily be described with words, and because of the vast distances involved, it cannot be easily demonstrated in the classroom.

To highlight the concept, TLT’s interactive development team created a simulation that not only allows students to see the effect in action, but also allows them to modify the distances and properties of the celestial bodies involved. They can then walk through the process themselves instead of merely observing it.

This same difficulty was present in trying to explain electron correlation, an important concept taught in Quantum Mechanics. TLT provided a solution by developing “Quantum Billiards”, a pool simulation that visualizations the concept in a way that is both effective and fun. The simulation allows students to switch between classical, non-interacting electron model, and independent electron models.

Presenters

Robert Schwartzberg, Jonathan Bowen