Hugh D. (David) Politzer
Hugh D. (David) Politzer
Richard Chace Tolman Professor of Theoretical Physics
B.S., University of Michigan, 1969; Ph.D., Harvard University, 1974. Visiting Associate, Caltech, 1975-76; Associate Professor, 1977-79; Professor, 1979-2004; Tolman Professor, 2004-. Executive Officer, 1986-88.
Research Interests: Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics, Science of Music
Overview
David Politzer is a Nobel Prize–winning theoretical physicist and a professor at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2004, his groundbreaking work on quantum chromodynamics helped reveal how quarks interact through the strong nuclear force, shaping modern understanding of particle physics. Beyond his research, Politzer is known for his engaging teaching and contributions to science education, bringing complex ideas to life with clarity and insight.
Selected Awards
- Fellow, American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 2011
- Nobel Prize in Physics, 2004; "for the discovery of asymptotic freedom in the theory of the strong interaction"
- High Energy and Particle Physics Prize of the European Physical Society, 2003
Selected Awards
- Fellow, American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 2011
- Nobel Prize in Physics, 2004; "for the discovery of asymptotic freedom in the theory of the strong interaction"
- High Energy and Particle Physics Prize of the European Physical Society, 2003
Related Courses
Ph 6. Physics Laboratory.
9 units; second term, 2025-26.
Prerequisites: Ph 2 a or Ph 12 a, Ma 2, Ph 3, Ph 2 b or Ph 12 b (may be taken concurrently), Ma 3 (may be taken concurrently).
A laboratory introduction to experimental physics and data analysis. Experiments use research-grade equipment and techniques to investigate topics in classical electrodynamics, resonance phenomena, waves, and other physical phenomena. Students develop critical, quantitative evaluations of the relevant physical theories; they work individually and choose which experiments to conduct. Each week includes a 30-minute individual recitation and a 3 hour laboratory.
Instructors: Rice, Politzer
Instructors: Rice, Politzer
Ph 7. Physics Laboratory.
9 units; third term, 2025-26.
Prerequisites: Ph 6, Ph 2 b or Ph 12 b, Ph 2 c or Ph 12 c taken concurrently.
A laboratory course continuing the study of experimental physics introduced in Physics 6. The course introduces some of the equipment and techniques used in quantum, condensed matter, nuclear, and particle physics. The menu of experiments includes some classics which informed the development of the modern quantum theory, including electron diffraction, the Stern-Gerlach experiment, Compton scattering, and the Mössbauer Effect. The course format follows that of Physics 6: students work individually and choose which experiments to conduct, and each week includes a 30 minute individual recitation and a 3 hour laboratory.
Instructors: Rice, Politzer
Instructors: Rice, Politzer
FS/Ph 9. The Science of Music.
6 units (2-0-4); first term, 2025-26.
This course will focus on the physics of sound, how musical instruments make it, and how we hear it, including readings, discussions, demonstrations, and student observations using sound analysis software. In parallel we will consider what differentiates music from other sounds, and its role psychically and culturally. Students will do a final project of their choice and design, with possibilities including analysis of recordings of actual musical instruments, instrument construction and analysis, and tests or surveys of people's abilities or preferences. Open to all undergraduates, i.e., 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th year.
Instructor: Politzer
Instructor: Politzer