Unleash your inner physicist

Teenage boy grins in a classroom.

A Limit Less Challenge 

In this year’s Eurekas, a UK and Ireland-wide competition for 11-16 year olds, we are challenging you to answer the question: How does physics power your passion?

We want to see submissions that show students interacting with physics creatively and in a way we might not expect. Everyone has a passion. Maybe yours is art, sport, music, gaming or something else – physics will be a big part of how it happens.  

Or perhaps there’s an issue or cause that you are really passionate about – whether it’s worldwide or one that you face day-to-day, think about how physics is part of that solution. Or maybe you really admire someone famous – physics will have helped them to get where they are today. Decide what you’re most passionate about, then show us how physics plays a part in it.

Get creative…

The winning entry, as determined by a judging panel, will receive a £1,000/ €1,200 cash prize. The winner’s school will be rewarded for their support by receiving a £250/€300 voucher to go towards school equipment.

Two runners-up will receive £500/€600 each.

We will also be recognising excellence for each age between 11-16, and the best entries will receive £250/€300 each.

With the Eurekas, any student between 11-16 years old can take part, and all entries that fit the criteria will be accepted and receive a certificate from the Institute of Physics. Shortlisted entries will be showcased on the Institute of Physics’ social media pages.

Think about what your entry might be

Craft an artwork showing how you would solve a problem, global or local, that you’re passionate about 

Make a sculpture of a health device that has made life better for you or someone you love 

Direct a video explaining the physics in your favourite sport  

Sing a song or play an instrument and explain how physics makes the music happen 

Imagine your hero – someone you admire. Explain the physics in what they’re famous for 

Sew, bake or build something and show us how physics makes it possible

Power up your favourite game and demonstrate how it uses physics to be realistic 

Prizes

The winning entry, as determined by a judging panel, will receive a £1,000/ €1,200 cash prize. The winner’s school will be rewarded for their support by receiving a £250/€300 voucher to go towards school equipment.

Two runners-up will receive £500/€600 each. We will be recognising excellence for each age between 11-16, and the best entries will receive £250/€300 each.

Judges

An inspiring judging panel will determine which entries best meet the criteria by demonstrating exceptional originality and creativity, including: 

Alom Shaha – science teacher, writer and filmmaker

Shivani Dave – journalist, broadcaster and physicist

Ray Mitchell – founder of The Eurekas and IOP Head of Campaign Strategy