Compact Muon Solenoids, And The Like

So, last week I was on a school trip. We went to Switzerland, which, y'know, is nice enough, but we went to CERN. You know, the big particle physics lab near Geneva?


WELL, I had a helluva time, and I think I've fallen in love with particle physics. I'm currently reading all the degree-level textbooks and the like on the subject and, suffice to say, some of the stuff is simply mind-blowing. Like, for example, the electronvolt (eV); normally a measure of energy at the subatomic scale. However, with a few tricks with special relativity, it can also be used to measure time, distance, momentum and temperature. Mental. 


The sad thing is, I think it's a case of "The more you think you understand it, the less you actually understand it", which is depressing.


Have some pictures.

The logo in the lobby

A massive mural of the ATLAS detector on the side of the building

Cross-section of the end of one of the LHC tubes...

...and inside one. 

Action shot of me in the CERN cafe, so inspired was I. Yes, I'm writing notes. Your point?

Until next time.