’Sixty Symbols’ unravelling the secret language of science

PA 113/09 It is the most famous scientific equation in history, framed by Einstein more than a century ago. But what does e=mc² actually stand for? And how does it explain the relationship between energy, mass and the speed of light? An innovative new video project is translating the mysteries of equations like this and many other symbols of science — from Lambda(λ) and the Hubble Constant (H) to the speed of light (c), imaginary numbers (j) and propulsion efficiency (η) — into plain English, harnessing the passion of scientists at The University of Nottingham. 'Sixty Symbols' ( http://www.sixtysymbols.com ) is The University of Nottingham's newest project aimed at shedding light on the world of science, explaining the meaning of dozens of symbols and the fundamental part they play in modern life. Physics and astronomy are full of symbols that can seem daunting to the outsider — a secret language that holds non-scientists at arm's length. 'Sixty Symbols' will help to break down those barriers with sixty short videos, each just a few minutes long and posted on a dedicated website, featuring academics chatting about an aspect of the subject they love. Professor Richard Bowtell, Head of the School of Physics & Astronomy, said: "Symbols are an essential part of the language of physics — each one forms a window onto an aspect of our subject. "Working with Brady Haran on the Sixty Symbols project is a great opportunity to explain some fascinating physics and to illustrate some of the exciting work that's going on in the School of Physics and Astronomy." The videos are created by filmmaker and former BBC videojournalist Brady Haran.