Chemistry, physics, astronomy subject of Usher Lecture

Dr. David Rhode, a chemistry professor at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, will give a lecture “The Colors of Stars” as part of the Jess Usher Lecture Series on November 17.

TIFTON — David Rhode, a chemistry professor at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, will give a lecture titled “The Colors of Stars” as part of the Jess Usher Lecture Series on Nov. 17.

Rhode will lead an exploration of the intersection of chemistry, physics and astronomy in determining the color of stars.

“We will be talking about a wide variety of topics linked to understanding the colors of stars, ranging from the electromagnetic spectrum and the foundations of the modern understanding of atomic structure and quantum theory to the concepts of blackbody radiation, color theory, Rayleigh scattering, the Doppler Effect, and even the biochemistry of human vision,” Rhode said. “This topic really showcases a multidisciplinary approach to what on the surface could appear to be a simple question.

“I think it is useful to remind students, faculty, and the public that real discovery often comes from a collaborative approach between specialists in many disciplines, and true understanding requires a broad base of knowledge to draw upon.”

Rhode said this presentation was originally created to provide a chemistry perspective on a recent solar eclipse.

“Although the eclipse is now over, it will reoccur,” he said. “In the meantime, the sun and stars are still up in the sky to be gazed upon and wondered about.”

The lecture is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. at ABAC’s Howard Auditorium. Each Usher Lecture Series event is free and open to the public.

The Jess Usher Lecture Series features a carefully curated slate of dynamic presentations, drawn from a wide range of disciplines and delivered by distinguished members of the ABAC faculty as well as distinguished guest lecturers. Formerly known as the ABAC Lecture Series, this special collection has been renamed in memory of Jess Usher, a beloved ABAC professor and former lecturer in the series, who passed away in June 2021.