Prof. Kirill Tuchin
Iowa State University

Date: Oct. 17, 2010

Title: Coherence at Extreme Energy and Densities

Abstract:

To study the properties of nuclear matter, the stuff nuclei are made
of, one bombards nuclei with various particles. At high energies,
these particles interact in exactly the same way with every nucleon of
the nucleus. This is called coherent scattering. Using examples from
Classical and Quantum Electrodynamics I will illustrate the dramatic
impact of coherence on observable quantities. Coherence plays a
crucial role in Strong Interactions at high energies. I will argue
that understanding of coherence is essential in the quest for the new
forms of nuclear matter.