Crystals: How symmetry programs matter The hidden magic of nature

Crystals are more than just beautiful faceted stones - their internal symmetry determines which properties they exhibit. Some generate an electrical voltage when pressed (piezo effect), others conduct electrons on their surface almost loss-free. In this lecture, we take a look into the "kitchen" of materials research: How do you "bake" crystals in the laboratory? Why can a single reflection switch electrical effects on or off? And what does this have to do with future sensors, energy technologies and quantum electronics? Short live experiments - from sounding quartz to a vivid topology demo - show how chemistry, temperature and symmetry are used to create tailor-made quantum materials. Those who like hands-on physics will experience how structures on the atomic scale shape the properties of our world.

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