Professor Sir Michael Berry is one of the most accomplished mathematical physicists of our
times.

His research contributions in nonlinear dynamics, quantum chaos, asymptotic methods
and optics have been recognized through numerous prizes and awards.

Abstract:

The transformation of a narrow beam into a hollow cone when incident along the optic
axis of a biaxial crystal, predicted by Hamilton in 1832, created a sensation when observed
by Lloyd soon afterwards.

It was the prototype of the conical intersections (diabolos) now popular in quantum chemistry.

But the one structure of the light cone contains many subtle features, slowly revealed by experiment, whose definitive explanation, involving new mathematical asymptotics, has been achieved only recently, along with definitive experimental test of the theory.

Radically different phenomena, being intensively studied now, arise when chirality and absorption are incorporated in addition to biaxiality.

11am Thursday 31 January
Red Centre Theatre, G001
The University of New South Wales