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. 

2009 Events

Escape Pod

1.  Where can we find tips for how to customize a model rocket kit so that it can carry an egg aloft for the maximum duration and safely return it to the ground?

Three documents that might provide a starting point are:
eggloftingplans.pdf -- from www.questaerospace.com
BasicRocketStability.pdf -- downloaded from www.rockets4schools.org/education/
PayloadBay.pdf -- downloaded from http://nmwg.cap.gov/santafe/Activities/payload.html
Web search parameters that should provide links to further information are "model rocket", "duration contest", and "egg lofting".

2. There is a lot of variation in the shape, size, and mass of grade-A medium-size chicken eggs. Will there be a maximum size or mass of the eggs to be launched during the competition?

The eggs used during the competition will range in diameter from 40mm to 45mm, in length from 52mm to 58mm, and in mass from 58g to 60g.

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 19, 2009. 

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.