The Tournament Format

IYPT is unlike any ordinary physics competition. Instead of answering multiple-choice questions or solving textbook problems, participants are presented with open-ended, real-world physics problems to investigate. These problems cover a wide range of topics within physics, from classical mechanics to electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum physics.

Teams of 5 young physicists are challenged to research, experiment, and present their findings in a rigorous and competitive environment. The competition is structured in rounds, each requiring teams to present their solutions to a panel of judges and engage in a debate with opposing teams. It's a gruelling intellectual battle that demands not only a deep understanding of physics but also effective communication and teamwork.

Each round consists of one team reporting on one of the problems they prepared for the tournament, another team opposing the report and a third team that reviews the report and the opposition. These roles are cycled each round until each team has fulfilled each role.

Example of the Opposition in a Physics Fight

Example of the Review in a Physics Fight