Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes - The Frontiers of Physics (Session 1)

This course begins by surveying important experiments and observations that created modern physics, which includes the fields of quantum mechanics and Einstein's theory of relativity. The class will investigate the groundbreaking physics theories and the mystifying proofs about how the universe works and a synopsis of physics today. We will go in depth on thought experiments that helped to solidify quantum mechanics within the Bohr Einstein debates. Students will survey historical experiments that led to modern physics theories, as well as the conceptual and philosophical backgrounds. The class will run up to the current state of physics today, including the standard model of particle physics, gravitational waves, the Higgs boson and potential grand unified theories. Prerequisites: Completion of an algebra course and familiarity with basic trigonometry. Application process includes: preliminary application, online application, written responses, work samples (if applicable), teacher recommendations, standardized test scores, transcript, $50 application fee. Need-based financial aid is available with the completion of an additional financial aid application.