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Harry Ellis
Professor of Physics

Eckerd College
4200 54th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33711

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toll-free: (800) 456-9009

Physics

Physics

Theoretical Nuclear Physics

Dr. Steve Weppner

Two students showing a visualization of the helium nucleus
 Students and faculty also collaborate in theoretical nuclear physics. The work is done by writing computer programs to "simulate" nuclear accelerators around the world. Students help write the programs and then visualize the results using a variety of graphical packages that we have available on campus. For example, in the past they have simulated the physics of protons "smashing" into helium atoms at high speeds. By comparing this with data collected from nuclear accelerators around the world scientists can understand better the nature of the nuclear force which powers the stars. Students have available to them to carry on this research an array of Sun Workstations (using SunOS) and personal computers (using Linux) located in the Advanced Scientific Computing Laboratory. Students recently have written an optical potential calculator which lets researchers from around the world execute the simulation
   


Contact Dr. Steve Weppner

Physics Majors

Physics majors are problem-solvers who can create and manipulate quantitative models of real-world systems. When these skills are combined with other fruits of a high-quality liberal arts education, the physics graduate is well equipped to become a true innovator in our world.

The James Center

Center for Molecular and Life Sciences

Equipped with the latest in eco-conscious innovations, educational technology and scientific instrumentation, the James Center for Molecular and Life Sciences will advance our efforts to prepare tomorrow’s leaders in the sciences, and will quickly become the hub of the Natural Sciences at Eckerd College. Discover the James Center.