A Musical Adventure in Physics: Exploring the Latest Episode of Physics World Stories

Whether you’re a Swiftie, a devout metalhead, or a 1980s synth pop aficionado, there is something for every musical taste in this month’s Physics World Stories.

In the latest episode, podcast host Andrew Glester takes listeners on a fascinating journey blending music and science.

Part One: The Swift Quakes

In the first segment, Andrew is joined by Jacqueline Caplan-Auerbach, a geophysicist at Western Washington University, US. They delve into the intriguing “Swift quakes” phenomenon observed during Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. These seismic events raise two compelling questions: Are the quakes caused by the music or the enthusiastic crowds? And how do these quakes compare to other notable events like the 2011 “Beast quake” triggered by American football celebrations? Surprisingly, Swifties (dedicated Taylor Swift fans) eagerly contribute data for this geophysical research, highlighting the intersection of pop culture and science.

Part Two: A New Podcast Jingle

The episode’s second part introduces listeners to a fresh podcast jingle. Andrew chats with its creator, Philip Moriarty, a physicist and science communicator at the University of Nottingham, UK. The song, “137,” is inspired by the fine-structure constant and is filled with playful references to this fundamental constant and the associated physicists. Expect some delightful surprises, including bongos! Moriarty provides further insights into the song in his article “H1dd3n variab7es: the fundamental constant on which the new Physics World podcast music is built,” where listeners can enjoy the tune.

https://player.blubrry.com/?media_url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.blubrry.com%2Fphysics_world_science_podcast%2Fcontent.blubrry.com%2Fphysics_world_science_podcast%2FPWStories-2024-05-22-SwiftQuakes_and_new_PW_jingle.mp3&modern=1&podcast_link=https%3A%2F%2Fphysicsworld.com%2Fa%2Fswift-quakes-and-new-podcast-music-inspired-by-the-fine-structure-constant%2F&artwork_url=https%3A%2F%2Fphysicsworld.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2FPW-Stories-Music-Image_thumb.jpg&display=nw#mode-Light&border-000000&progress-000000

Life

The OpenFire Podcast: Leading Voices in Fire Safety with Dave Calvert and Tom Gilbert

Hosted by industry veterans Dave Calvert, Operations Director of Frankham RMS, and Tom Gilbert, CEO of CLM Group, The OpenFire Podcast sparks meaningful conversations in the world of fire safety. Dave and Tom bring over 50 years of combined experience, earning widespread recognition for their commitment to elevating fire safety standards. With a touch of […]

+ Read More
Life

Discover More with “The Beach Is Just the Beginning” Podcast

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has launched an exciting new podcast, “The Beach is Just the Beginning.” Hosted by renowned travel writer and journalist Peter Moore, this unique podcast brings authentic stories from the twin-island nation to life. Explore Heritage and History Listeners can explore the rich heritage of Antigua and Barbuda. This is […]

+ Read More
Life

Discover the World with “Meet Us in Paris” Podcast

Are you passionate about travel? Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or just starting to explore, our podcast “Meet Us in Paris” is your perfect travel companion. From stunning destinations and delicious food to fascinating customs and the latest travel gadgets, we cover it all. Join us as we share the craziest travel stories and tips […]

+ Read More