The Western Kentucky Physics Olympics:  Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any question regarding the Western Kentucky Physics Olympics please feel free to send an email to Richard Gelderman (Richard.Gelderman@wku.edu) who is organizing the event.  In many cases we will post the answers to question here on this FAQ page for all interested participants. 

General Questions

1.  How can we learn more about Physics Olympics and get tips on how to prepare our team for the event ?

Doug Jenkins, former physics teacher from Warren Central High School, would love to visit your physics class to encourage participation in this year's Physics Olympics. His presentation includes pictures and stories from past Olympics, a review of each of this year's events, and tips on how to get the most out of this truly enjoyable and worthwhile event. To schedule a visit to your classroom, contact Doug via e-mail at seasonedteaching@aol.com or by phone at 270-781-1922.

2.  What is the deadline for registration ?

The registration deadline is February 15, 2008. 

3.  How do we register ?

Each team should register using the online form at http://physics.wku.edu/olympics/registration.html.  However, if you have any problems whatsoever with this web-based form please feel free to provide the requested information either by email (Richard.Gelderman@wku.edu), telephone (270-745-4357) or fax (270-745-2014).  

4.  Does each team have to have four members ?

Yes.  We have designed a number of the events for the Western Kentucky Physics Olympics to be team-oriented.  In fairness to all we want to keep the number of students per team the same for all teams. 

5.   Can we register more than one team from the same school ?

Absolutely.  There may be cases in which a physics teacher sponsors more than one team but it would be helpful if he/she could arrange another adult sponsor to be present for each team.

6.   I have a question about an event.  Who should I ask ?

Please direct any questions about upcoming events to Richard.Gelderman@wku.edu.  Answers to these types of questions will be posted on this FAQ page for all interested teams to read.

2008 Events

Dematerialization

1.  Do we have to edit the PowerPoint file that is available for download from the website?

Yes. There are parameters built into that template that we want each team to be using. For instance, the font sizes and slide size are important characteristics of that template.

2.  Are the pencils provided, or may we bring our own?

Either option is possible. The original thought was that it would be more like a magic show to get a new, unsharpened pencil from the "audience", but I see no reason why you can't bring your own.

Electromagnetic Locomotion

1.  Can an on/off switch be placed between the magnet wire and the batteries, so as not to have to remove the alligator clips, once in place?

Yes. The only requirements are that the provided magnet and wire be used in the final design. The judges reserve the right to verify those original parts get used during the competition. Otherwise, each team can replace or add pieces as they see fit. In this case, using a switch will mean less wear and tear on the system because the alligator clips can pull the motor out of alignment.

2.  When I try to reel up the 20 cm of string with the paper clip attached, the weight of the clip bends the thin wire ends of the coil out of shape as it spins. Due to that the clip will not reel and the wire is thrown off of its axis. How do we attach the paper clip so the wire does not bend and remains on its axis?

Part of the challenge built into this event is that you must use the provided 1.5 meter long segment of 28-gauge magnet wire. We agree that this wire bends easily. Each team will have to carefully think through and and experiment to achieve a system that lifts the paper clips reliably and efficiently.

3.  When it says we only have to use the magnet and wire and are allowed to add to this… Does this mean that we can use more batteries or magnets?

No. The only magnets that can be used are the provided magnets and the only coil that can be used must be formed from the provided wire. In addition, each team is limited to the use of two D-cell batteries.

  WKU Physics Olympics Overview  |  Event Descriptions  |  Online Registration  |  Directions to WKU
  Frequently Asked Questions  |  Physics Olympics Archive  |  WKU Physics Homepage 

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