Happy 2020!

I wish you all a Happy New Year! To start the year with a bang, check out my digital New Year’s card featuring a scientifically accurate electron explosion!


The simulation (implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics 5.4) involves 2020 electrons that are placed randomly in a “2020”-shaped geometry. Since the electrons repel each other via the electromagnetic force, they fly apart. Their speeds are indicated by the colors (in km/s). The simulation running backwards on the New Year’s card can be seen as (i) a metaphor for 2020 taking shape, (ii) a neat demonstration of T-symmetry of electromagnetism or (iii) a heresy to the Second Law of Thermodynamics.