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G9 Physics Project | Discovering the Wonders of Mechanics

June 2, 2024

From May 20th to 24th, the 9th-grade students participated in a unique physics project called "Discovering the Wonders of Mechanics". This competition not only tested the students' physics knowledge but also sparked their innovative thinking and team collaboration spirit.

The competition was divided into two groups, A and B. Group A was tasked with designing and constructing a paper bridge with a span greater than 15 centimeters and a height greater than 5 centimeters. Meanwhile, Group B had to build a paper structure with a height exceeding 13 centimeters and a width of at least 5 centimeters on at least one side. The common challenge for both groups was that their creations had to be made solely from two A4 sheets of paper and solid glue, forming a single structure capable of standing independently for at least 5 seconds. Ultimately, the weight-bearing capacity would determine the winners.

During the preparation phase, the students made full use of mechanical principles such as leverage balance, force dispersion, and concentration. Through cutting, folding, and gluing, they transformed ordinary A4 paper into bridges and buildings with remarkable load-bearing capabilities. They continuously experimented with new designs, striving to maintain structural stability while maximizing the weight capacity of their creations.

On the day of the competition, Ms. Yao Yanjie, the chief instructor and host, briefed the students on the rules before the group rounds officially began. After intense competition, Team A, consisting of Kevin S., Kevin C., Ricky J., and David H., emerged victorious with an outstanding bridge design and exquisite craftsmanship that could bear the weight of 15 packets of printed paper. Meanwhile, Group B faced an even more challenging hidden task after the elimination rounds — using a single A4 sheet to create a new structure on the spot. Team B, comprising of Cindy W., Jenny S., and Lucy L., displayed remarkable innovation and practical skills. Their building successfully supported 12 packets of printing paper, and in the hidden task, they crafted a new structure capable of bearing 5 packets, ultimately claiming the championship in Group B.

On May 30th, all of the ninth-grade students gathered in the B1 Lecture Hall of the Zhentao Building to witness the exciting final competition.

Before the competition began, the instructor, Mr. Yu Haifeng, first extended his warm congratulations to the champion teams from both Group A and Group B and presented them with award certificates. Then, he introduced the rules to the students: The participating teams were required to build a bridge with a span of over 20 centimeters using hot glue and 100 popsicle sticks, and challenge its load-bearing capacity, with the ultimate goal of supporting the weight of a student.

Amidst warm applause, the two teams displayed their carefully crafted bridges. The audience was thoroughly impressed by the intricate design and exquisite craftsmanship of these bridges. With a command from the judge, the competition officially kicked off. The two teams' began stacking "bricks" made of A4 paper onto their bridges with great care.

As the competition progressed, the two bridges gradually transformed into small towers. The strength of the two teams was evenly matched, making the competition a stalemate for a while. However, as the "bricks" continued to accumulate, the bridge of Team A began to wobble, causing the audience to hold their breath, fearing for the safety of the bridge.

Ultimately, the bridge of Team A unfortunately collapsed under the weight, exiting the competition with regret. After the fair judgment of the judges, Team B's bridge emerged victorious with a slight advantage, and successfully supported the weight of a student volunteer.

The "Discovering the Wonders of Mechanics" project not only allowed students to deeply appreciate the charm and wonders of physics but also made them realize that through scientific thinking and practical exploration, seemingly impossible tasks can be achieved. In their future studies and lives, they will continue to nurture their passion for physics, constantly challenging and surpassing themselves.

(Written by 9(7) Teresa Pictures by Physics Department Supervised by Xu Yuechao Edited by Cody Allen Turner Reviewed by Hanyue Shi)