The Reality of Quantum Mechanics: A Masterclass | Prof. R. Shankar | Episode 45

Quantum mechanics has shaped the modern technological world, from semiconductors and lasers to the emerging frontier of quantum computing. But how did this revolutionary theory begin, and what does it mean for the future of science and engineering? In this episode of the Professor Mahesh Podcast, Mahesh Panchagnula speaks with renowned physicist R. Shankar, Professor of Physics at Yale University and an alumnus of IIT Madras. Together they explore the fascinating journey of quantum mechanics over the past 100 years, from Max Planck’s groundbreaking ideas to today’s race toward quantum computing and quantum technologies. Prof. Shankar explains complex ideas such as wave-particle duality, superposition, entanglement, and probability in quantum physics in a simple and engaging way. The conversation also explores how quantum mechanics enabled technologies like semiconductors, and why understanding quantum physics is becoming increasingly important for the next generation of engineers and scientists. The discussion also covers Prof. Shankar’s own journey, from IIT Madras to Yale, and his insights on how students can develop deeper intellectual curiosity and truly understand physics. In this episode you will learn Why quantum mechanics changed science forever The origins of quantum theory and Planck’s discovery What wave–particle duality really means Superposition and entanglement explained simply How semiconductors and modern electronics emerged from quantum physics What quantum computers are and why they matter How students can start learning quantum mechanics today The Professor Mahesh Podcast brings expert insights to help students and parents make informed decisions about careers in science, engineering, and technology. Subscribe for more conversations with leading scientists, researchers, and innovators. This podcast is brought to you by the Office of Global Engagement, IIT Madras - https://ge.iitm.ac.in/ All the references made in the podcast can be found here - Chapters: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:02:33 – The Birth of Quantum Mechanics 00:05:20 – From Theory to Engineering Applications 00:06:57 – Modern Engineering: Computation, Sensing, and Communication 00:11:15 – The Wave-Particle Duality of Electrons 00:14:36 – Semiconductors and Band Theory 00:16:33 – Professor Shankar’s Early Days at IIT Madras 00:20:37 – Finding "Intellectual Moments". 00:21:40 – Comparing Indian and American Education Systems 00:23:00 – Explaining Superposition and Entanglement 00:29:45 – Quantum Computing vs. Classical Computing 00:32:25 – Why Quantum Computers are Faster 00:33:01 – The Requirement of Low Temperatures 00:34:29 – Where to Start Learning Quantum Mechanics 00:36:35 – Information Theory 00:37:46 – Advice for Physics Teachers 00:40:34 – The Importance of Laboratory Experiments 00:43:13 – Advice for Physics Teachers 00:43:55 – Should Quantum be a Required Course? 00:45:27 - Closing Thoughts Courses: NPTEL Quantum Mechanics I(IIT Bombay)-https://nptel.ac.in/courses/115101107 Coursera Quantum Mechanics -https://www.coursera.org/learn/quantu... Edx Introduction to Quantum Computing - https://www.edx.org/learn/quantum-com... StanfordOnline: Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1- https://www.edx.org/learn/quantum-phy... #podcast #podcastclips #podcasts #fullepisode #quantummechanics #engineering