Physics Competition: Projectile Launching Your Scientific Career
Participating in competitions is a fantastic way to express one's knowledge in specific fields, regardless of one's age. This idea applies to the area of physics as well. While there are various STEM and science competitions, this blog will discuss the benefits of participating in physics competitions and how to prepare for them.
Benefits of Participating in Physics Competitions
Of all the sciences, physics is the one that is most directly connected to math and is typically classified as an applied science. While theoretical knowledge of the subject is excellent, it is difficult to evaluate the extent of expertise in the field based on conceptual understanding.
However, physics competitions provide a great way to collaborate with other like-minded students to develop a deeper understanding of the topic and apply the concepts in a real-world example. They take ideas learned in the classroom and apply them in different settings.
In addition, these competitions also increase networking opportunities with scientific individuals and can foster profound connections with others. As a high school student, participating in physics competitions can also be an excellent resume booster. With all these benefits, it is highly encouraged to participate in a physics competition.
Choosing the Right Physics Competition
There are various factors to consider when choosing a physics competition. First and foremost, it's crucial to look at the eligibility rules and see if you satisfy the requirements. These rules may involve factors like age range or area of residence.
However, outside of eligibility, it's also vital to consider factors such as the location of the competition, the price of the competition, and the necessary knowledge needed to do well.
Cost
The most crucial factor is cost. While some competitions are free, others may require payment. If your financial position allows the participation of some contests over others, choosing a competition that won't pose a financial burden is best.
Location
Some physics competitions occur online, while others occur in specific locations. You must also consider if there needs to be a chapter in your school to participate in a particular competition. Choosing a competition that matches your comfort level regarding travel and location is advised.
Competition Difficulty
Some competitions are more prestigious than others, with multiple levels ranging from local to international. The more selective, the higher the competition; thus, more preparation is needed to do well. You might choose some competitions over others based on the time you have to prepare and your goals for the competition.
Top 7 Physics Competitions for High School Students
PhysicsBowl
Physics Bowl is an international physics competition in which regional school teams compete against other school teams. The exam takes place in the Spring and consists of a 40-question, 45-minute multiple-choice test. This competition must be proctored; these proctors can't be the student's relative and must have at least a two-year degree.
The competition is split into Division I and Division II for first-year and second-year physics students, respectively. Each division has 15 regions across the country. This system helps with the distribution of awards in the competition.
As one of the most prestigious physics competitions, participating in the PhysicsBowl will develop skills and lead to a better appreciation of the subject.
Sir Isaac Newton Exam
The Sir Isaac Newton Exam is offered by the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Waterloo. The competition is open to students from the United States and has involved 2,500 students from more than 300 schools.
Since the competition uses a curriculum covered in high school courses and is free, it is a great option to choose. This exam is perfect for asking for teacher assistance and can provide an excellent way to test one's knowledge in the subject area.
International Science and Engineering Fair
Known as the world's largest pre-college science competition, ISEF has involved more than 1,800 students from 75 countries. The competition highlights people's innovative talents and research. To participate in ISEF, a person must perform exceptionally well at the fair's local, regional, and state levels.
In the competition, students present research they have conducted for up to 12 months. Apart from physics, other subtopics include biology, astronomy, condensed matter, and more.
Physics Brawl
Physics Brawl is an online competition with students of up to five people. These teams participate in a three-hour-long contest to solve physics problems. The competition fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and other vital life skills.
The teams are organized into three categories: A, B, and C. Categories are arranged based on multiple factors, such as how long the student has until graduation. The competition consists of seven problems, and the team with the most points wins.
Breakthrough Junior Challenge
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a prestigious international competition, involves creating a two-minute video explaining a physics, life sciences, or mathematics topic. The video can be in any form, such as animation, documentary, etc.
The video is submitted in June, and it undergoes a several-month judging process consisting of peer judging, administrative judging, the evaluation panel, and the popular vote. Once the finalists are released, a single winner is decided. The winner receives a $250,000 scholarship for college, a $50,000 prize for a teacher of their choosing, and, lastly, $100,000 for a lab at your school.
While this challenge is more conceptual than other physics competitions that directly test physics knowledge, it is still an extremely prestigious competition to participate in.
USAPhO
Sponsored by the AAPT and the American Institute of Physics (AIP), the United States at the International Physics Olympiad Competition allows students to participate based on their F = ma exam performance. Students must be US citizens, currently attending an American school, or permanently living in the United States to participate in the F = ma exam.
The cutoff for the F = ma exam is typically between 14-18 and consists of 25 multiple-choice questions in a 75-minute timeframe. Some of the topics on the test include kinematics, oscillations, momentum, energy, and more.
National Science Bowl
National Science Bowl is an academic competition testing middle and high schoolers on their knowledge of earth science, physics, biology, energy, and math.
The first step is to compete in regional rounds in teams of 4-5 students. If your team performs well, you all will be able to go to the National Science Bowl finals in DC. The link above has more information on resources to use for preparation, along with the rules and guidelines.
Preparing for Physics Competitions
The best way to prepare for these physics competitions involves thoroughly researching the topics on the test and looking up past exams. This will give you an idea of the questions' style and the subject's nuances. In addition, carefully follow the rule guidelines while practicing. For example, if a test only allows thirty seconds per question, don't give yourself more than that when solving the problem.
In terms of gaining knowledge of physics, there are a variety of physics textbooks to use. Start by learning the main overarching concepts of physics before getting more and more specific. This method will help you get a deeper understanding of the information.
Interested in Other Competitions?
If you are interested in other science competitions that expand beyond physics, visit this page for more information. In addition, consider joining the Inspirit AI Scholars program, where students can learn AI concepts from students from notable Universities and apply them in other areas such as healthcare, economics, the environment, music, and more.
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
