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Why This Universe?

Why This Universe?

Written by: Dan Hooper Shalma Wegsman
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The biggest ideas in physics, broken down. Join theoretical physicist Dan Hooper and co-host Shalma Wegsman as they answer your questions about dark matter, black holes, quantum mechanics, and more. Part of The University of Chicago Podcast Network.

© 2026 Why This Universe?
Astronomy & Space Science Physics Science
Episodes
  • 98 - An Improbable Quantum Ghost Story (Ft. David Kaplan)
    Jan 19 2026

    An unlikely change in the theory of quantum mechanics would lead to bizarre new conclusions. Our guest talks us through non-linear quantum mechanics, and how physicists like him are testing it.

    For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

    Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

    Support the show

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    41 mins
  • 97 - The Schrödinger Equation: The Heart of Quantum Mechanics
    Dec 22 2025

    Quantum mechanics is full of surprises. But somehow, the theory is captured almost entirely in a single equation. Today we explore the Schrödinger equation: how it works, what it says about nature, and why it revolutionized physics.

    For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

    Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

    Support the show

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    30 mins
  • 96 - The Making of Particle Fever (Ft. David Kaplan)
    Nov 24 2025

    In the years leading up to the Large Hadron Collider turning on, the physics community was buzzing with curiosity and excitement about what they were about to discover. These moments were captured in the documentary Particle Fever, created by the particle physicist David Kaplan. On today's episode, he recounts these historic years from the perspective of both physicist and filmmaker.

    For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

    Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
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