Why This Universe? cover art

Why This Universe?

Why This Universe?

By: Dan Hooper Shalma Wegsman
Listen for free

About this listen

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.

© 2025 Why This Universe?
Astronomy Astronomy & Space Science Physics Science
Episodes
  • 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

    Show More Show Less
    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
  • 95 - Would Aliens Have the Same Physics? (Ft. Daniel Whiteson)
    Nov 4 2025

    If we met aliens, could we communicate through physics? Daniel Whiteson explores this question on today's episode. For more, check out his new book, Do Aliens Speak 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

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.