Beyond the Standard Model: supersymmetry in physics
Could Supersymmetry help to solve some of the mysteries of physics? Why do we even need to think about symmetry when doing physics? We will seek answers in the realm of squarks and sleptons.
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The most widely accepted model of particle physics currently is called the Standard Model. This model provides us with a set of particles which make up all of the matter which we regularly encounter on Earth, including the matter of which we are made. It turns out that the Standard Model is underpinned by the concept of symmetry, a concept which at root is relatively easy to understand. If you take a square and rotate it by a quarter turn, it will look the same as it did before you rotated it. That is a symmetry of the square.
In spite of the success of the Standard Model, there are some aspects of physics which the model struggles to explain. In particular, gravity and quantum theory have not been reconciled within the theory. Likewise, dark matter and dark energy are not accounted for within the model.
With the aim of solving these fundamental problems in physics, some physicists have proposed an extension to the Standard Model called Supersymmetry, which builds upon the symmetries already inherent in the original model. Supersymmetry envisages that every particle in the Standard Model has a counterpart particle, known as a super partner. So for example the electron, a particle in the Standard Model, would have a counterpart in the Supersymmetric theory called a selectron. These super partners, potentially, could assist in answering some of the questions which the Standard Model has failed to answer.
In this course we will review the Standard Model, investigate why symmetry is so important within this model, and examine how Supersymmetry seeks to extend the model and answer some of the key unanswered questions in physics today.
What will we cover?
1) A review of the Standard Model of particle physics. 2) An examination of the concept of symmetry and why it is central to particle physics. 3) An exploration of Supersymmetry, its origins and central concepts. 4) The (so far unsuccessful) search for experimental evidence of Supersymmetry.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
1) Describe the Standard Model. 2) Recognise symmetry and how it relates to particle physics. 3) Identify the core concepts within Supersymmetry. 4) Describe how physicists are searching for evidence of Supersymmetry.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course does not require any background in physics or mathematics. All the topics will be explained from first principles. At the same time, the topics covered will also be of interest to those who have already delved into this fascinating area of physics.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The topics will be presented by the tutor with the aid of various audio-visual presentations such as PowerPoints and short video clips. We will discuss questions as a class as they arise. The materials presented will be available on Google Classroom, but you may wish to make your own notes. There will be no requirement for any work outside of class, although the tutor will be happy to discuss any related topics which you have considered.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
No other costs - a pen paper/notebook if you wish to take notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Please see the science and nature area for further physics courses.
Dr. Gary Retallick Mathematics and Science Gary obtained his Phd in Philosophy of Physics from Kings College London in 2006. His thesis explored the physics of time, touching upon relativity, field equations, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics and metaphysics. Gary began his teaching career in computing, going on to teach philosophy for the WEA and Mary Ward Centre, and physics and mathematics at both Birkbeck College London and the Open University. He currently teaches various science related courses, spanning topics in physics, chemistry and mathematics, at City Lit. Languages - Cornish Aside from his career in Science, Gary has an ongoing interest in languages, in particular Cornish, the language of his ancestors. He began studying Cornish at City Lit in 1998, and after passing the grade three Cornish exam with distinction he started to assist his tutor, Jo P'rhys. After a number of years as language assistant to the class, Gary was formally appointed as teacher of the Cornish beginners class, allowing Jo to concentrate on the higher level classes. Gary now teaches both the beginners and lower intermediate classes.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/beyond-the-standard-model-supersymmetry-in-physics2530786Beyond the Standard Model: supersymmetry in physicshttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/https://www.citylit.ac.uk/static/version1762433779/frontend/WilliamsCommerce/citylit/en_GB/Magento_Catalog/images/product/placeholder/image.jpg6969GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Business, marketing & technology/Courses/Business, marketing & technology/Science & nature/Physics/Courses/Business, marketing & technology/Science & nature22851211124116661228512111666<p>Could Supersymmetry help to solve some of the mysteries of physics? Why do we even need to think about symmetry when doing physics? We will seek answers in the realm of squarks and sleptons.</p>002923167Beyond the Standard Model: supersymmetry in physics6969https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/no_selectionInStockDaytimeSatKeeley StreetAvailable courses1 to 4 weeksWeekend2026-05-16T00:00:00+00:00May 2026Business, marketing & technologyHS3306969Beyond the Standard Model: supersymmetry in physics554569Gary Retallickbeyond-the-standard-model-supersymmetry-in-physics/hs330-2526<p>Could Supersymmetry help to solve some of the mysteries of physics? Why do we even need to think about symmetry when doing physics? We will seek answers in the realm of squarks and sleptons.</p>0000-Available|2026-05-16 00:00:00The most widely accepted model of particle physics currently is called the Standard Model. This model provides us with a set of particles which make up all of the matter which we regularly encounter on Earth, including the matter of which we are made. It turns out that the Standard Model is underpinned by the concept of symmetry, a concept which at root is relatively easy to understand. If you take a square and rotate it by a quarter turn, it will look the same as it did before you rotated it. That is a symmetry of the square.<br/><br/>In spite of the success of the Standard Model, there are some aspects of physics which the model struggles to explain. In particular, gravity and quantum theory have not been reconciled within the theory. Likewise, dark matter and dark energy are not accounted for within the model.<br/><br/>With the aim of solving these fundamental problems in physics, some physicists have proposed an extension to the Standard Model called Supersymmetry, which builds upon the symmetries already inherent in the original model. Supersymmetry envisages that every particle in the Standard Model has a counterpart particle, known as a super partner. So for example the electron, a particle in the Standard Model, would have a counterpart in the Supersymmetric theory called a selectron. These super partners, potentially, could assist in answering some of the questions which the Standard Model has failed to answer.<br/><br/>In this course we will review the Standard Model, investigate why symmetry is so important within this model, and examine how Supersymmetry seeks to extend the model and answer some of the key unanswered questions in physics today.<p>Could Supersymmetry help to solve some of the mysteries of physics? Why do we even need to think about symmetry when doing physics? We will seek answers in the realm of squarks and sleptons.</p>1) A review of the Standard Model of particle physics.<br/>2) An examination of the concept of symmetry and why it is central to particle physics.<br/>3) An exploration of Supersymmetry, its origins and central concepts.<br/>4) The (so far unsuccessful) search for experimental evidence of Supersymmetry.1) Describe the Standard Model.<br/>2) Recognise symmetry and how it relates to particle physics.<br/>3) Identify the core concepts within Supersymmetry.<br/>4) Describe how physicists are searching for evidence of Supersymmetry.<p>This course does not require any background in physics or mathematics. All the topics will be explained from first principles. At the same time, the topics covered will also be of interest to those who have already delved into this fascinating area of physics.</p><p> </p>The topics will be presented by the tutor with the aid of various audio-visual presentations such as PowerPoints and short video clips. We will discuss questions as a class as they arise. The materials presented will be available on Google Classroom, but you may wish to make your own notes. There will be no requirement for any work outside of class, although the tutor will be happy to discuss any related topics which you have considered.No other costs - a pen paper/notebook if you wish to take notes.Please see the science and nature area for further physics courses.Science & naturePhysicsvirtual556945HS330NONESat16/05/26 - 23/05/2610:30 - 13:0010:3013:002 sessions (over 2 weeks)21 to 4 weeksDaytimeWeekendKSKeeley StreetGary RetallickAvailable courses2026-05-16T00:00:00+00:00May 2026Business, marketing & technology6969Beyond the Standard Model: supersymmetry in physicsbeyond-the-standard-model-supersymmetry-in-physics/hs330-2526<p>Could Supersymmetry help to solve some of the mysteries of physics? Why do we even need to think about symmetry when doing physics? We will seek answers in the realm of squarks and sleptons.</p>0000-Available|2026-05-16 00:00:00The most widely accepted model of particle physics currently is called the Standard Model. This model provides us with a set of particles which make up all of the matter which we regularly encounter on Earth, including the matter of which we are made. It turns out that the Standard Model is underpinned by the concept of symmetry, a concept which at root is relatively easy to understand. If you take a square and rotate it by a quarter turn, it will look the same as it did before you rotated it. That is a symmetry of the square.<br/><br/>In spite of the success of the Standard Model, there are some aspects of physics which the model struggles to explain. In particular, gravity and quantum theory have not been reconciled within the theory. Likewise, dark matter and dark energy are not accounted for within the model.<br/><br/>With the aim of solving these fundamental problems in physics, some physicists have proposed an extension to the Standard Model called Supersymmetry, which builds upon the symmetries already inherent in the original model. Supersymmetry envisages that every particle in the Standard Model has a counterpart particle, known as a super partner. So for example the electron, a particle in the Standard Model, would have a counterpart in the Supersymmetric theory called a selectron. These super partners, potentially, could assist in answering some of the questions which the Standard Model has failed to answer.<br/><br/>In this course we will review the Standard Model, investigate why symmetry is so important within this model, and examine how Supersymmetry seeks to extend the model and answer some of the key unanswered questions in physics today.<p>Could Supersymmetry help to solve some of the mysteries of physics? Why do we even need to think about symmetry when doing physics? We will seek answers in the realm of squarks and sleptons.</p>1) A review of the Standard Model of particle physics.<br/>2) An examination of the concept of symmetry and why it is central to particle physics.<br/>3) An exploration of Supersymmetry, its origins and central concepts.<br/>4) The (so far unsuccessful) search for experimental evidence of Supersymmetry.1) Describe the Standard Model.<br/>2) Recognise symmetry and how it relates to particle physics.<br/>3) Identify the core concepts within Supersymmetry.<br/>4) Describe how physicists are searching for evidence of Supersymmetry.<p>This course does not require any background in physics or mathematics. All the topics will be explained from first principles. At the same time, the topics covered will also be of interest to those who have already delved into this fascinating area of physics.</p><p> </p>The topics will be presented by the tutor with the aid of various audio-visual presentations such as PowerPoints and short video clips. We will discuss questions as a class as they arise. The materials presented will be available on Google Classroom, but you may wish to make your own notes. There will be no requirement for any work outside of class, although the tutor will be happy to discuss any related topics which you have considered.No other costs - a pen paper/notebook if you wish to take notes.Please see the science and nature area for further physics courses.Science & naturePhysicsconfigurable
