Physics/Expert Profile
Expertise
I can answer most basic physics questions, physics questions about science fiction and everyday observations of physics, etc. I'm also usually good for science fair advice (I'm the regional science fair director). I do not answer homework problems. I will occasionally point out where a homework solution went wrong, though. I'm usually good at explaining odd observations that seem counterintuitive, energy science, nuclear physics, nuclear astrophysics, and alternative theories of physics are my specialties.
Experience in the area
I'm a physics professor, research in nuclear astrophysics. I teach physics, nuclear chemistry, radiation safety, vacuum technology, and answer tons of questions as I tour schools encouraging students to consider careers in science.
Education/Credentials
Ph. D. from Duke University in physics, research in nuclear astrophysics reactions, gamma-ray astronomy technology, and advanced nuclear reactors.
Average Ratings
Recent Answers from Steve Nelson
2009-11-22 quantum physics:
The photon is one of the most-understood and best-studied objects in the known universe on every level. Literally hundreds of thousands of experienced physicists with decades of experience each have dedicated
2009-11-22 chaos theory:
Well, I'm not really sure, but I'd say that Lorenz initially discovered that weather depended in this way on initial conditions during his simulations of weather. This is most likely the origin of the
2009-11-21 quantum physics:
Quantum mechanics bugs a lot of people, but it works fantastically well and it's stood up to nearly a century's worth of exhaustive testing. The principles of quantum mechanics that you state are highly
2009-11-21 How many times the power would a sprinter have to produce to run ten times as fast?:
You are, of course, assuming that air resistance is the main resistance to a runner's motion. At those speeds, it would indeed be significant, but you're comparing using the assumption that at human speeds
2009-11-19 electrostatics:
Air won't charge up a vehicle much, though it is another charging (and discharging) mechanism. Air probably discharges the vehicle more than it charges it because it will carry excess charge from the
Answers by Expert:
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.