In the Particle Physics and Cosmology
degree scheme we're demonstrating the
fundamental principles of particle
physics. In this experiment we are
studying muon particles which are
produced by cosmic ray interactions in
the upper atmosphere. By analyzing data
we can determine the lifetime of muon
particles and therefore verify the
theories of quantum mechanics and
special relativity. This course talks
about the really big question in physics
the fundamentals of the universe of the
Big Bang of our understanding of
everything. That is why I chose Particle
Physics with Cosmology because it offers
a wide range of specialized experimental
and theoretical modules. I also like it
because it offers independent open-ended
research-based projects. You can choose
your own project and you can do whatever
you want to do and use the all the
facilities that we have - you can
build your own detector, you can go out
and measure reactivity in the
environment - anything that comes to your mind.
I liked the first year because we
went from familiar concepts such as
Newtonian mechanics to something new
such as quantum mechanics. I also
like the fact that I was able to switch
from straight physics to particle
physics. This course puts together various
skills that you can use either if you
stay in academia or if you go into
industry. It's all about critical
thinking and understanding things. I
really like the fact that I can apply
the knowledge I gained throughout the
years in the experiments. So this course
is really about my subject area what I
love doing and it's good to be
able to pass that on and I love teaching
it as well.
