Trapped Surfaces, Topology of Black Holes, and the Positive Mass Theorem

Einstein's theory of gravity has been a strong driving force for the current developments in both physics and mathematics. Among its wide applications, the theory successfully describes and even predicts celestial objects, such as black holes, which were previously unknown. Over the past few decades, remarkable progress has been made using advanced techniques in geometry and analysis to resolve fundamental questions in general relativity, such as the positive mass theorem, which relates to the properties of total mass in spacetime. Furthermore, this advancement has led to the astonishing realization that black holes are governed by the same mathematical principles that govern everyday objects, such as soap films. In this talk, we will discuss the mathematical models of black holes and explore their intriguing interconnections to the positive mass theorem and other problems in geometry and physics. 

For more information on this and previous van Winter Memorial Lectures, please visit https://math.as.uky.edu/van-winter

A reception will be held in the lobby outside CP 155 at 2:45 pm.

“Some Intersections of Art and Science”

 Prof. Frank Wilczek, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

 Public lecture: Thursday, April 28, 7:30 pm, Memorial Hall 

Abstract: There are profound reasons, rooted in the nature of human cognition and perception, why art and science have a lot to offer one another.   I will display some important historical examples of their synergy, and point out some emerging opportunities.  Several striking images are an integral part of the presentation. 

Frank Wilczek is an American theoretical physicist, mathematician, and Nobel laureate.  He is the Herman Feshbach Professor of Physics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Along with David Gross and H. David Politzer, Wilczek was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics (2004) for the discovery of asymptotic freedom in the theory of strong interaction.

Wilczek's lecture is free and open to the general public.   A book signing will follow. 

This event is supported by the Departments of Physics and Astronomy, Mathematics, Statistics, Chemistry, the College of Engineering, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Graduate School, and the Vice President for Research.  The organizers thank the  Dr. J. C. Eaves Undergraduate Excellence Fund in Mathematics and  Milton Huffaker for their generous support.