NTU Physics Challenge

The NTU Physics Challenge is an annual competition organised by the Division of Physics and Applied Physics at the School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (SPMS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Designed for pre-university students, the challenge provides participants with an opportunity to tackle thought-provoking physics problems, attend lectures by SPMS faculty members, and connect with like-minded peers who share a passion for physics.

A Platform for Aspiring Physicists

The 2024 edition was held on 27 July 2024 at SPMS, and it featured a rigorous multiple-choice physics test in the morning, structured to align with and extend beyond the Cambridge A-Level syllabus. In the afternoon, participants attended engaging lectures and demonstrations covering topics such as collective behaviours in physics, the chain fountain effect, and the intersection of physics and information science.

Live physics demonstrations, one of the many interactive sessions at the NTU Physics Challenge.

Recognising Talent and Achievement

This year’s competition saw outstanding performances from students across various institutions. The top five candidates were nominated to attend the 2025 Global Young Scientists Summit (GYSS), organized by the Singapore National Research Foundation and facilitated by the Institute of Advanced Studies at NTU:

1. Ng Le Xi (NUS High School)
2. Chen Kay Den (Hwa Chong Institution)
3. Siddhaarth Dharani (NUS High School)
4. Lin Lejing Fanny (River Valley High School)
5. Joanne Tan Kai Xin (Hwa Chong Institution)

In addition to the GYSS nominations, exceptional students were awarded book prizes in recognition of their achievements, with Gold, Silver, and Bronze categories honouring excellence in problem-solving and conceptual understanding.

Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead

Group photo-taking with our Physics Challenge pre-university attendees.

The NTU Physics Challenge remains a premier platform for nurturing young scientific minds, encouraging intellectual curiosity, and cultivating future leaders in physics.

Beyond testing their academic abilities, participants had the chance to gain valuable insights from NTU faculty, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of physics. The winners will continue their journey at the Global Young Scientists Summit, where they will engage with leading scientists from around the world, broadening their perspectives and inspiring future pursuits in scientific research.