The Simons Center for Geometry and Physics (SCGP) at Stony Brook University has launched a new exhibition titled "100 Years of Quantum Mechanics," which opened on October 9. The event began with a reception and was followed by a lecture from Giuseppe Mussardo, a professor of theoretical physics at the Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati in Trieste, Italy.
The exhibition is curated by Lorraine Walsh, SCGP Art Director, as part of the Simons Center Art and Outreach Program. It commemorates the centennial of quantum theory—a scientific development that changed perspectives on nature, energy, and matter. The exhibition will be open until January 16 and aligns with UNESCO’s recognition of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
Walsh described the show as one that “explores the foundations of quantum theory and its evolution, as well as continued research.” The displays highlight major breakthroughs in physics by figures such as Max Planck, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, Werner Heisenberg, and Erwin Schrödinger. Walsh added: “It offers a snapshot on how quantum mechanics underlies much of modern physics that has led to a revolutionary understanding of matter, and a profound impact on technology and innovation.”
After the opening reception at the Simons Center lobby, attendees listened to Mussardo’s lecture titled "God Plays Dice with the World: The Story of Quantum Mechanics." This title refers both to his book and Einstein’s remark about randomness in quantum physics.
“Today we are talking about one of the most gripping stories ever told,” Mussardo said. “It is a story of great ideas, fierce competition, and profound discoveries. The story of quantum mechanics is the great game of the 20th century.”
Mussardo discussed milestones in quantum science starting with Max Planck’s work in 1900 on blackbody radiation. He explained how Planck introduced what became known as Planck’s constant: “The magic of this formula is incredible,” Mussardo said. “Never in the history of science has such a simple interpolation had such an immense consequence in physics and philosophy.”
He went on to describe Einstein’s introduction of light quanta—now called photons—and his explanation for the photoelectric effect. According to Mussardo: “Einstein was both a bird and a frog,” referencing Freeman Dyson's analogy about visionaries who also engage deeply with practical problems.
Mussardo traced subsequent advances including Niels Bohr’s atomic model; Arnold Sommerfeld’s refinements; Werner Heisenberg’s mathematical formulation during his time on Helgoland island; Erwin Schrödinger's wave equation; and their debates over different approaches to describing reality.
He recounted: “Heisenberg said, ‘At first I was deeply alarmed. I had the feeling that through the surface of atomic phenomena I was looking into a strangely beautiful interior.’ That moment marked the birth of modern quantum theory.” Regarding differences between key theorists he noted: “Heisenberg found Schrödinger’s theory ‘repulsive and lacking civilization,’ while Schrödinger thought Heisenberg’s algebra was frighteningly abstract... And yet they were describing the same reality in two languages.”
Mussardo highlighted experiments demonstrating wave-particle duality such as the double-slit experiment: “If you observe which slit the particle passes through, the interference pattern disappears... Reality changes with observation — that is the unsettling beauty of quantum mechanics.”
He concluded by discussing Heisenberg's uncertainty principle from 1927: “This is what blurred our reality forever... And this is why our life in quantum mechanics is so interesting.”
Faculty members, students, scientists from various fields attended both events before engaging in questions following Mussardo's talk.
In closing remarks Mussardo stated: “Quantum mechanics is not just a chapter in science... It is a symphony, a story of human curiosity, creativity, and courage that continues to unfold.”