Physics Olympiad.PPT

Physics Olympiad Organization in the US Sample Problems Schedules History Plans for development in Indiana Physics Olympiad started in Eastern Europe in the early 50’s In Poland it was initiateted by prof. W.Rubinowocz from University of Warsaw In 1951 Polish Physical Society created a committee to organize Physics Olympiad for high school students. … After 40 years 60 countries have similar programs in place. Motivation Promote physics and math in high schools Increase enrollment of physics and other science majors Identify exceptional talents Development of physics curriculum International Physics Olympiad AAPT Schedule November : Applications sent out to high school physics teachers January : First preliminary exam multiple choice + essay questions (to be graded by the teachers) February : Second preliminary exam (to be administered by teachers, graded by PO coaches) May : 20-25 Finalists are selected to a participate in a training camp at U.of M. Physics Olympiad Syllabus Sample problems Two parallel rolling pins separated by a distance 2l are rotating with identical, constant angular velocities as show. A uniform wooden plate of weight P is placed on top of them in such a way that its center of gravity is slightly shifted with respect to the mid point between the pins. The coefficient of friction between the plate and pins is f. Describe the motion of the plate. An infinite square lattice is made out of electrical wires. Resistance of a single link is R. What is the equivalent resistance RAB of the lattice if connected to an electric circuit at two nearby lattice sites. Proposal for Indiana High Schools October : inform students, identify students interested in participation, get schools on AAPT mailing list. November-January : Training program : Web based, training sessions by teachers and IU faculty (1-2 hour sessions/week) Create prize fund for top participants. * * I High School level (volunteer) Organizati