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.
2010 Events
Edible Musical Instruments
1. Where can we find tips for making a musical instrument that can be eaten?
A web search turned up many examples, including YouTube videos of instruments being made and played.
2. Will my team earn points for "production value" during the performance of the music?
The organizers encourage every team to ham it up and put their all into their performance of Itsy Bitsy Spider. There should be not vocals; however, elaborate, but tasteful, costumes, choreography, and special effects are all encouraged.
3. Is it possible to transpose the song to a higher octave?
It is acceptable for the team to construct their musical instrument to play up an octave. We are able to measure higher frequencies and understand the issue. However, any transposition of the music needs to be harmonious with the original score.
4. What is the normal room temperature in the competition room?
We hope for 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Actual temperatures in February can range from 66 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Are competitors allowed to bring a dip to aid in the consumption of the instrument?
As long as the dip is incorporated into the performance.
Wind Generator
1. Will the organizers mount our blade assembly to the CD-player motor/generator?
Each team is responsible for mounting and dismounting their blade assembly at each testing station.
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. 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).
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
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