Fixing Modern Physics

‘Classical’ or Newtonian Physics is quite well grounded, explains things in the world around us in a reasonably logical and complete manner, and provides useful equations that, in most instances, allow outcomes to be predicted or explained. However, this is not the case for particle Physics, which forms the basis of modern Physics. With the introduction of the Standard Model (SM), General Relativity (GR), Special Relativity (SR), Quantum Mechanics (QM) and Quantum Electrodynamics (QED), modern Physics has become complicated, esoteric and lacks practical application.

Central to particle Physics is the Orbital Nuclear Atomic Model (ONAM). It has evolved from the planet-like Bohr atomic model, which is now over 100 years old, and has been extended by the inclusion of the wave equations of QM. With an emphasis on purely mathematical models, long gone are any incentives for Physicists to develop cogent realistic physical models that can explain observed phenomena work and be of assistance to the applied Science areas.

Modern Physics now appears to be very confused and confusing: it selectively refers to two types of electron orbitals (Bohr shells and ‘spdf’ orbitals); electrons have been defined to be point particles that have intrinsic angular momentum; light may consist of particles or waves (sometimes as both); uses tailored orbitals (via a specious process called orbital hybridisation) are used to match chemical bonding patterns; the nucleus is considered to have no structural form despite nucleons having structure in terms of quarks; and there is the lack of a realistic positive charge carrier to explain electric current within semiconductors. As revealed in this e-book, these are just the tip of the iceberg: Modern Physics has a growing list of systemic problems, questionable practices and weird counter-intuitive concepts.

Particularly over the past 30 years, there has been much disquiet regarding the problems, inadequacies and counter-intuitive nature of the SM/QM based ONAM approach. The main sticking points relate to the ‘spdf’ electron orbitals as defined by the wave equations of QM, and to the adoption of the controversial Copenhagen interpretation which established the ground rules for QM and opened the door to the normalisation of quantum weirdness and related concepts. In response to the perceived problems of ONAM, several individuals and groups have opted to independently develop alternative approaches.

Briefly overviewed are six of the more significant ‘alternative’ atomic models that have been largely overlooked or ignored by mainstream particle Physics. These ‘alternative’ atomic models offer new perspectives to a range of observed phenomena that are poorly or not explained by ONAM; and, as a bonus, they are well align well with ‘classical’ Physics. In the context of the current problems of modern particle Physics, some of these new theories might just provide the missing link that will tweak ONAM back into reality and allow it to move forward; or to identify some fundamental flaws with ONAM and provide some feasible solutions.

Addressed topics include the structure of atoms and molecules, the nature of electromagnetism, beta decay, electricity and light. Some topics are detailed and technical in nature, but ‘plain’ English explanations have been provided and supported by lots of diagrams, which means that you do not have to be a Science geek or particularly Science-savvy to read the book. However, it is a book that will challenge what you think you know about Physics, and it will introduce you to a lot of new Physics-related concepts that you can follow up using the provided links.

Although the e-book may not ‘Fix Modern Physics’, it does identify many of its current problems and constructively points out some potential solutions. It also suggests the direction that modern particle Physics needs to take in order to once again become useful, and to re-gain credibility and relevance in the real world.