Physics in Your Life
Course Overview
Discover how physics shapes everyday experiences through 36 engaging lectures with Professor Richard Wolfson, covering everything from kitchen thermodynamics to space technology with hands-on demonstrations.
Video Lessons
Waves & Perception
- Realms of Physics (32 min)
Introduction to classical vs modern physics - The Amazing Disc (30 min)
CD/DVD technology revealing light/sound principles
4-6. Optics & Sound (90 min)
- Eye physiology to telescopes
- Rainbows and fiber optics
- Music physics and ultrasound
Motion & Forces
7-9. Newtonian Physics (91 min)
- Three laws of motion
- Friction’s crucial roles
- Circular motion mysteries
10-11. Flight Technology (61 min) - Airplane aerodynamics
- Spaceflight and “zero G”
Electromagnetism
13-18. Electric Universe (183 min)
- Atomic charge to power plants
- Magnetism applications
- Generators to credit cards
- Maxwell’s wave equations
Modern Technology
19-24. Digital Revolution (184 min)
- Silicon chip to motherboard
- Transistor invention
- Computer memory systems
Thermodynamics
25-30. Heat & Energy (184 min)
- Refrigerators to climate
- Phase changes in water
- Kitchen physics
- Shakespearean thermodynamics
Special Topics
31-36. Applied Physics (184 min)
- GPS technology
- Rotational motion
- Laser applications
- Nuclear medicine
- Cosmic origins

