Summary
In this podcast episode titled Cosmic Collisions with Neil deGrasse Tyson, the host and guest, Chuck Nice, discuss the topic of cosmic collisions. They explain how collisions between particles in the solar wind and atmospheric molecules create auroras and how larger asteroid impacts could have devastating consequences. The hosts also discuss potential plans for dealing with asteroid impacts, including evacuating the predicted impact zone.
The conversation then moves on to the physics of high-speed collisions and how they can cause explosions. They explain the concept of binding energy and kinetic energy, and how the release of energy during a collision can cause an object to explode. They also discuss the impact of collisions on the universe, including the formation of craters and the creation of beautiful phenomena.
The hosts answer listener questions about collisions in space, including the possibility of collisions with Earth and the sounds that can be created by energy in space. While discussing the latter, the host expresses some reservations about turning astrophysical data into sound, as it can lead to misconceptions about the universe. Neil deGrasse Tyson also discusses the low frequency sounds of the universe, which had to be artificially boosted in order to be heard. He also explains that most of space is empty and sound needs a medium to transmit, so the idea of hearing sounds in space is a bit misleading.
The discussion then moves on to synesthesia, a fascinating condition where sensory wiring is crossed, and how it relates to seeing sounds. Tyson mentions that galaxy collisions are beautiful and can lead to the formation of new galaxies. Finally, Tyson addresses a question about the possibility of the Big Bang and the Big Rip being causally connected, and discusses the energy needed to split elementary particles.
In the latter part of the podcast episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson discusses the possibility of the universe experiencing a "big rip" in 22 billion years if the acceleration of the universe continues. He explains how the energy in the universe can create multiple big bangs if the universe rips apart. Tyson also answers a question about what happens to event horizons when two black holes collide, and recommends searching for an explainer on the topic. The episode ends with Tyson and Chuck Nice discussing social media handles and teasing a potential sequel to the episode. Throughout the episode, Tyson emphasizes the importance of continuing to learn and advance our understanding of the universe.
