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Professor Thomas Papenbrock to answer “big questions” in physics and astronomy November 4

Atom - illustration on a white backgroundProfessor Thomas Papenbrock, UT Department of Physics and Astronomy, will discuss “The Atomic Nucleus: The Core of Matter, the Fuel of Stars” at the next Science Forum Friday, November 4.

The atomic nucleus, the tiny object at the center of an atom, contains almost all the atom’s mass and is held together by the strong force. Nuclear reactions power the stars and atomic nuclei thereby connect microscopic and macroscopic objects. Contemporary research focuses on short-lived and rare nuclei to learn more about how the strong force binds protons and neutrons into complex atomic nuclei, and to understand the fate of massive stars. In his talk, Papenbrock will give an overview of some of the “big questions” in the field and recent insights gained through research in East Tennessee.

The UT Science Forum takes place Friday, November 4 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Thompson-Boling Arena Cafe (located at 1600 Phillip Fulmer Way), Rooms C-D.

Guests are encouraged to bring their lunch or purchase it from the arena. Each presentation is followed by a Q&A. The event is free and open to the public.

Additionally, this year, we have temporary parking passes available for our guests who do not have UT parking passes. An RSVP is required for the pass. Please email Amanda Womac for more details.