Quantum Mechanics Explained in Under A Minute

Could you explain Quantum Mechanics in 60 seconds? No. Us either, but luckily the world has Brian Cox and the BBC. Cox is a Physicist and Professor of Particle Physics at the University of Manchester. He appeared on the BBC radio show, 'Life Scientific', where he was challenged by radio host Jim Al-Khalili, to explain the rules of quantum mechanics in under 60 seconds. If you are like us, intimidated just by the words “Quantum Physics”, here is how Wikipedia broke it down: “Quantum mechanics is the science of the very small. It explains the behavior of matter and its interactions with energy on the scale of atoms and subatomic particles.”

Unsurprisingly Cox does a very good job at a slightly more academic yet still succinct explanation. He even makes it in under the time limit. Without going into detail - watch the video - it’s all about particles and probability. Though Cox does concede his explanation is just a basic outline and you’ll really need to spend some time with the challenging subject if you want to get a deeper understanding. Cox has written eight books on the subject, so he certainly knows a thing or two about it.

And as if being a physicist isn’t cool enough, Cox is also a musician with four albums under his belt from his two bands Dare and D:Ream.

Watch the video to get the full 60 seconds worth of science magic.

Via BBC News