University Calendar

Senior Experience Seminar Series in Physics - 2025

Leonard Fesemyer
Acoustic Bubble Trapping in an Attempt to Observe Sonoluminescence
In my senior capstone, I used sound waves to trap bubbles at a fixed position, attempting to create a flash of light within the bubble. This process is known as sonoluminescence. The cause of this flash is not widely agreed upon, so my initial goal was to gain insight into the mechanics of this flash. The goal of the project shifted as I worked to create an apparatus which could reliably reproduce sonoluminescence. My project ultimately presents a series of factors which must be considered when creating sonoluminescence conditions. These factors can be referenced for future experimentation into the phenomenon.

Cormac Billick
The Taylor-Couette flow and the onset of Turbulence
I will be covering some introductory principles of fluid dynamics and background information that is relevant to the Taylor-Couette flow. I'm introducing the listener to some of the basic principles of instability in fluid flow, and covering the laminar case of the Navier-Stokes equations for the TC flow. We look at what flow characteristics are signifiers of instability in an attempt to quantify what makes an unstable flow.

Helin Wang
Quantum Computing and Cryptography
Quantum computing has the potential to become a leading force in technological advancement in just a few years. In theory, quantum computers can implement algorithms far more efficient than anything classical computers can achieve. This impact is especially evident and powerful in the field of modern cryptography. Quantum algorithms are capable of solving complex problems that modern encryption systems rely on in just a fraction of the time compared to known classical algorithms. Though the development of quantum computing applications is still in its infancy, the world of post-quantum cryptography is inevitable. In this talk, we will provide an overview of the basics of quantum computing, explore the implications of quantum algorithms, and introduce a specific quantum key agreement scheme based on Grover's algorithm, which we have successfully implemented on an IBM quantum computer.

Dimitris Christou
Fields and Beyond: Enhancing Learning in Introductory Physics
What if there were better ways to make sense of physics? For many students, physics is intimidating - bringing stress and uncertainty as they struggle with missing foundational building blocks and real-world connections. In my research, I explored general strategies to improve physics education and developed a learning module that leverages fields - an intuitive framework that ties together everything from gravity to electromagnetism. By emphasizing fields in introductory physics, we can make concepts more accessible and help students build a stronger, more connected understanding of the physical world.

Location:	Youngchild 121
Contact:	Matthew Stoneking matthew.r.stoneking@lawrence.edu
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