WOW!
Archimedes said it could be done and now Westholme Sixth Form physicists have proved it can be done. The challenge was simple: given £50, could you build a pair of shoes to help you walk across the swimming pool?
Using Archimedes principle, fluid dynamics and theories of stability, the Year 13 Physicists designed what they hoped would keep them afloat. A trip to B&Q had the students bending pieces of wood to test their strength and looking at plywood with more interest than they ever thought possible! Friday evenings were then given over to building, and turning into snowmen as they tried to cut the polystyrene. Eventually the shoes were ready and the students took to the pool once their exams were over. A few structural issues became apparent in the water but nothing that a few metres of duct tape couldn’t cure. Overall the design was a fantastic success and the students had a thoroughly enjoyable time. Congratulations to all involved.
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