The Mechanical universe-- and beyond
Subtitle: Part II : Beyond the mechanical universe, programs 43-46
By: California Institute of Technology and the Southern California Consortium ; producer and director, Peter Buffa
Contributors: California Institute of Technology; Southern California Consortium for Community College Television; Annenberg/CPB
Publisher: Annenberg/CPB
Published: 2003
Place of publication: S. Burlinton, VT
Language: eng
Format: [videorecording] /
Number of pages: 120
Subjects: Space and time; Relativity (Physics); Gases; Ideal gas law; Thermodynamics; Heat-engines
Other titles: Mechanical universe (Television program); Beyond the mechanical universe.; Velocity and time.; Mass, momentum, energy.; Temperature and gas law.; Engine of nature.
Description: Program 43 examines Albert Einstein's interest in perfecting the central ideas of physics. Details Einstein's new understanding of the meaning of space and time, including such matters as the transformation of velocities, time dilation, and the twin paradox. Program 44 deals with the formulation of a new mechanics based on Einstein's concept of space and time. Covers relativistic momentum, equations relating kinetic energy and total energy of a particle to its speed, and the relation between mass and energy in special relativity.  Program 45 traces the ups and downs of scientific research as reflected in Boyle's experiments and Charles's investigations. New discoveries about the behaviors of gases make the connection between temperature and heat. Program 46 deals with the Carnot engine and the first law of thermodynamics. Uses computer animation sequences, historical reenactments, and close-up photography of experiments.
Notes: An Annenberg/CPB project.

Pt. of a two-semester television course.

Videodisc release of the original television program: The mechanical universe.

Animated graphics, Jim Blinn ; story editor, Jack Arnold ; consultants, Dave A. Campbell, Judith Goodstein.

Host, David Goodstein.

College students and adults.
Table of contents: title: Velocity and time (30 min.); title: Mass, momentum, energy (30 min.); title: Temperature and gas laws (30 min.); title: Engine of nature (30 min)