Physics: from particles to the universe and beyond
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- Start Date: 06 Oct 2025End Date: 10 Nov 2025Mon (Evening): 18:00 - 20:00In PersonLocation: Keeley StreetDuration: 6 sessions (over -6 weeks)Course Code: HS160Tutors: Gary RetallickFull fee £179.00 Senior fee £179.00 Concession £116.00
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What is the course about?
We will explore some of the fundamental aspects and important ideas of physics such as the nature of light, matter and energy and the physical laws governing our universe. We will journey from the microscopic to the macroscopic and learn about the new revolutionary discoveries of the world around us.
What will we cover?
- Energy and forces
- Gravity
- Temperature and heat
- The nature of light
- Wave particle duality
- Relativity.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Outline the concept of a force and different types of force
- Describe energy and momentum conservation
- State the nature of planetary orbits, the concept of gravitational attraction and its variation in strength over
distance and the possible nature of gravity
- Outline the concepts of thermal equilibrium and energy conservation with real-world examples
- State the fundamental law of entropy in the Universe
- State what light consists of, describe the wave-particle duality of light, how light behaves when interacting with matter
- List different types of light and practical applications of light
- Outline the fundamental principles of the microscopic world and quantisation
- Describe Einstein's theory of relativity.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory course and is open to all. However, GCSE-level (or equivalent) knowledge of physics or science is recommended. The course will take you beyond A level in the ideas of physics but without the mathematical content. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course and to participate fully in discussions.You will also need an open mind and a willingness to listen to other points of view in order to participate constructively in the course.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught in a number of different ways including tutor presentations with visual examples, demonstration experiments, video and group discussio.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Bring a notepad and pen. There are no additional costs for the course.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HS243 Physics unravelled: navigating the maze of string theory
HS136 The physics of time
HS155 Quantum Physics
HS320 How gravity shapes spacetime: exploring Einstein's theory of General Relativity
HS003 Exploring the quantum world
HS321 When stars collapse: the physics of black holes, from small to supermassive.
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.