T6: Soft Interfaces: At the crossroads of Physics, Chemistry and Biology

From everyday phenomena like the peeling of Scotch tape or slicing of butter, to the biomechanics of cells, the calving of glaciers, and even the cracks on the Mona Lisa – soft matter is adorned with examples that lie at the interface between physics, chemistry, and biology. This course is designed to give a flavor of the different physicochemical phenomena in soft matter that lie at intersections of different fields, the learnings from which not only deepen our fundamental understanding but also guide us in engineering special materials with unique (and even exotic) properties. For example, observing an accidentally spilled drop of wine spreading into a fabric may guide us in discovering the design principles of exceptionally slippery materials.

With illustrations from the physical and the biological world to their distillation in engineering applications and even the discovery of hydrodynamic analogs of quantum systems – the lectures would provide a glimpse into the varied nature of soft matter. The course is designed to encourage undergraduates even if they do not fall under a conventional branch of physical sciences that includes soft matter.

Topics covered:

• Physical Interfaces

• Biological Interfaces

• Architected Materials

• Hydrodynamic Analogs of Quantum Systems