The goal of this set of lectures is to combine two seemingly unrelated topics: (1) The study of Boolean functions, a field particularly active in computer science; (2) Some models in statistical physics, mostly percolation.
For the first time ever, science gives us the answers to questions like "what's the chance of a team that wins the League or Premiership also winning the Cup? Can you predict how many goals will be scored? What's the best height for footballers? Is the winning team the best team?" The Science of Soccer is a fascinating book, dealing with a wide range of subjects where scientific analysis can be applied to football. Starting with a qualitative description of the basic physics that relate to the ball and its bounce, the author then moves through kicks and throws to a simple account of the more complex physics of a ball in flight.
Without the daring, courageous, and innovative thinkers the past, life as we know it would be completely different; Planes, trains, and automobiles would never have been invented; Earth would be considered the center of the universe; and strep throat, polio, and smallpox would still be incurable diseases. Thankfully, individuals from various backgrounds and situations pushed themselves along the path of discovery and made great contributions to the scientific community, bravely initiating discoveries and broadening the minds of those around them. The "Pioneers in Science" set is a unique eight-volume collection profiling the people behind the science.
The new fourth edition of Nelson Physics VCE Units 1 and 2 has been completely revised to precisely match the new VCE Physics Study Design 2009-2012. Written by experienced Physics educators, it provides comprehensive and up-to-date coverage of the VCE Physics Study Design.
