1900: A physics genius wandering around Europe

Chapter 384 The competition begins! A magical question appears! The geniuses are stunned! What kind of question is this?
The questions asked by Li Qiwei successfully shocked the team leaders from all over the world.

This is the first time that everyone discovered that exam questions could be set in this way.

The last question in particular was very impressive in its ingenuity and creativity.

Soon, everyone began to discuss heatedly.

Except for the third theoretical question, the other four questions have also been modified to varying degrees.

This modification ensures that the questions are brand new and no one can cheat.

Competitions of this level, such as the International Physics Competition, have extremely high requirements for fairness.

So from now on, team leaders can no longer meet with their team members.

In the next few days, we will discuss the scoring criteria and other issues together.

At the same time, contestants from various countries mixed together.

People like Compton and de Broglie, although in the delegation, were not qualified to participate in the topic review meeting.

Since the age difference between them and the students was not much, they quickly became familiar with everyone.

These days, Wu Youxun and others, as students of the host country, took contestants from other countries to visit the City of Science.

"You see, the City of Science has changed a lot now."

"That building is where we're going to take the exam next."

Everyone looked in the direction Wu Youxun pointed and saw a five-story building rising from the ground, majestic and grand.

Looking around, the foundation of the current Science City is filled with various buildings.

As the only girl in the crowd, Irena was curious about everything.

"Wu, what are these buildings going to be used for?"

Wu Youxun could remain calm when facing the theory of relativity, but he instantly became scared when he saw Irena.

The aura of being alone is revealed.

He said shyly:

"Ms. Irena, I don't know about that either."

“Usually here, we students can’t come here often.”

“But it is said that these buildings are all exquisite.”

"The principal, oh, Professor Bruce, said that the City of Science is different from ordinary cities."

“It requires detailed planning.”

"I guess these different buildings should be different laboratories."

"After all, there may be big differences in the architectural structures of physics laboratories and biology laboratories."

Irena nodded, not quite understanding.

She might understand a little.

Irene helped her mother, Madame Curie, with experiments a long time ago.

In terms of operating experience, she may be the most experienced among all the players present.

Of course, this doesn't mean that she will definitely be first in the experimental part.

After all, all she could do at that time was some simple work.

But anyway, she had an idea about the experiment.

For example, in a chemical laboratory, there must be many toxic reagents.

Then the discharge of these reagents needs to be carefully considered to avoid contaminating water and land.

Compton looked at the scene before him and suddenly sighed:
"It is said that the Chinese are the best at construction."

“Today I have witnessed it with my own eyes.”

"It should have been about two and a half years since Professor Bruce started construction."

“I didn’t expect that the framework of the entire city has been completed.”

"I really have to admire the wisdom and hard work of the Chinese people."

Compton's words made Wu Youxun and other Chinese students very happy.

After all, everyone would be happy to hear a foreigner praise his or her country in public.

Wu Youxun couldn't help but look at this handsome American guy and had a good impression of him.

The other party is a PhD student at Princeton University in the United States and will graduate this year.

This kind of academic qualification is simply the best among the best in China today.

The most important thing is that Compton has a very good temper.

He was not at all arrogant or looking down on these undergraduates.

Instead, he acts like an older brother, sharing his experience in studying for a doctorate with everyone.

It also focused on analyzing the specific situation of American PhDs, allowing Ye Qisun and others to have a deeper understanding of foreign countries.

At this time, Wu Youxun asked with a smile:

"Mr. Compton, I heard that you chose physics as your major because you were influenced by Professor Bruce, is that right?"

Compton smiled when he heard this and said:

"Haha, that's right."

“At that time, Professor Bruce went to Princeton to give a speech, which caused a huge sensation.”

"All students in the field of natural sciences adore Professor Bruce crazily."

"I am certainly no exception."

"I'm sorry you missed that speech."

"In my heart, that was a speech that changed my destiny."

Everyone was attracted by the conversation between Compton and Wu Youxun.

Anything related to Professor Bruce is what the geniuses present care about most.

Because everyone's goal is to be qualified to discuss academic matters with Professor Bruce one day.

Now, they are considered one in a million geniuses in the eyes of others.

But to Professor Bruce, they were no different from other ordinary students.

It is like to a great dragon flying in the sky, what is the difference between a strong ant and a weak ant on the ground.

Wu Youxun said: "Yes, I have watched Professor Bruce's speech countless times."

“Every time I watch it, I get a new experience.”

"So, Mr. Compton, is there any connection between that speech and the research direction you have chosen for your doctorate?"

Compton smiled and said, "Haha, I know, you must want to ask me why I chose such an unpopular topic, right?"

Just now when he was chatting with everyone, he inadvertently mentioned the content of his research.

Wu Youxun didn't quite understand why.

Compton looked at everyone and said:
"Yes, the topic I study is the wave-particle duality of light."

"It has been 1901 years since Professor Bruce proposed this concept in 15."

"But still no one has been able to rigorously prove this hypothesis."

"Although the photoelectric effect can indirectly explain some of the particle properties of light."

"But it's not a rigorous experimental proof."

Wow!
Everyone was shocked.

Some people actually choose to study the wave-particle duality of light.

That is a very difficult subject.

Irena said: "Professor Bruce even believes that light quanta have momentum."

“This is the most incomprehensible thing.”

"Because momentum is entirely a property of particles."

"Light is obviously a wave, how can it have momentum properties that only particles have?"

Everyone present is the best among undergraduates.

We also have a basic understanding of this cutting-edge direction in physics.

It is because of this understanding that they can understand why Compton is so awesome.

Wu Youxun continued, "Mr. Compton, I really admire your courage."

"Choosing such a difficult topic means you are bound to face countless difficulties."

Compton laughed and said, "Haha, don't think too highly of me."

“Actually, there is another reason why I chose this topic.”

“That means there is less competitive pressure.”

"You should know that the most popular research directions in the field of physics right now are probably relativity and quantum theory."

"Oh, and the atomic structure as well."

“But precisely because it’s so popular, there are so many people researching it.”

"As a result, these two fields are full of great people."

“Let me ask you, in the field of quantum theory, who can compare with Professor Bohr?”

“Instead of competing with the big guys in this field, it’s better to find a field that is both famous and less researched.”

"The wave-particle duality of light is my carefully selected choice."

After Compton finished speaking, the juniors and seniors present all exclaimed in their hearts, “WTF?”

Damn, he is too scheming.

It turns out that people who study physics are all very smart.

I will never rush forward without thinking.

As we all know, there are three most popular subjects in physics now.

In terms of relativity, Professor Bruce is far ahead of others.

In quantum theory, Professor Bruce and Professor Bohr were far ahead.

Atomic structure, Professor Rutherford suppressed everything.

Anyone who studies these three directions has to live under the shadow of these three great gods.

Although the geniuses present were confident, they were definitely not confident enough to be on par with the greats.

And now, Compton has taken a different approach and discovered a niche track.

But although it is a niche topic, if a breakthrough really occurs, it will definitely be Nobel Prize-level.

Once the wave-particle duality of light is truly proven.

It will allow physicists to re-understand the entire world.

Because no one can imagine what it would be like if something was both a wave and a particle.

At this moment, Wu Youxun became very interested in Compton.

During this time, he studied relativity and quantum theory in depth.

Although it is very discouraging, Wu Youxun has to admit that these two theories are simply inhumane.

He considers himself a genius and is determined to win the championship in this physics competition.

But facing Ridgway and Bohr, he could only admit defeat.

When the gap in strength reaches a certain level, any effort will be useless.

Once upon a time, Wu Youxun was also confused.

He felt that his future would never be able to escape the principal's shadow.

But now, he sees hope.

He was very interested in Compton's subject.

"Mr. Compton, I think we can communicate more in the future."

Compton smiled and said, "You're very welcome, Wu."

"I hope you can come to the United States to study in the future so that we can discuss this issue together."

"Professor Bruce has a good relationship with our American Professor Michelson."

"Both of them hope to strengthen academic exchanges between the two countries."

Wu Youxun said: "Yes."

"Professor Bruce encourages Chinese students like us to study abroad."

"He said that only by communicating more can one broaden his horizons."

Compton clapped his hands.

"Professor Bruce is absolutely right."

"I'm worried that no one will discuss this with me."

Wu Youxun smiled and said, "It's a deal."

"After I graduate, I will apply to go to the United States for a visiting scholar exchange."

At this time, de Broglie, who had been silent, spoke.

“Compton, I’m also interested in the wave-particle duality of light.”

“We can communicate together when we have time.”

"I came here this time to ask Professor Bruce some questions."

Compton readily agreed.

"Of course, I didn't expect that I could find two like-minded people on this topic."

"Haha, after the game is over, the three of us can go together to find Professor Bruce."

"With Wu here, I think the professor will definitely meet us."

Wu Youxun and others looked at de Broglie with complicated expressions.

They already knew each other's identities, which were very distinguished nobles in France.

If his identity were to be changed to that of the Qing Dynasty, everyone present would have to kneel down when talking to de Broglie.

But such a noble person was actually obsessed with science.

This was completely unimaginable to Wu Youxun, Ye Qisun and others.

“Perhaps this is why Western science is leading the world.”

At this moment, they realized how difficult it was for Principal Li.

He was fighting alone against the best talents from the best countries in the world.

Pull China out of the quagmire and breathe the breath of natural science.

Although this aura was only a trace and very weak, it already had the potential to grow. With this little episode, the relationship between everyone became more harmonious.

Although they each fought for their own country.

But this did not prevent them from becoming good friends in private, or even scientific confidants.

For the next ten days or so, all the contestants played carefree and as they pleased.

Time flies.

Soon, the game will begin.

Compton, as the big brother of the group, encouraged everyone:
"Take the test bravely, geniuses."

"This is a big step for you to enter the stage of real scientific research."

"Whether you go well or not, it is a precious treasure in your life."

"I hope you can all get satisfactory results."

"Oh, by the way, our American team will definitely take first place this time."

Everyone laughed.

The tense mood relaxed instantly.
-
July 1916, 7, 1:9 a.m.

The first International Physics Olympiad officially began in the Borneo Science City.

A total of 25 students from 80 countries and regions around the world competed on the same stage.

Today is the theoretical exam, which lasts for 3 hours, from 9:12 to :.

The experimental exam will be held on July 7rd.

In order to expand his influence, He Yujie immediately invited well-known newspapers from around the world to interview him.

They will interview students after the competition to obtain first-hand information.

The third floor of the examination building.

80 students sat upright, ready for battle.

Everyone's expression was very serious.

No matter how much fun they had before.

Now everyone has calmed down and is ready to go all out.

This is not just a competition for themselves, but also a competition for the country.

This is a battle of wisdom and honor.

Geniuses never give up.

Everyone held their breath secretly.

Soon, the invigilator came in.

After election by the heads of delegations from various countries, He Yujie, Wilson, Lang Zhiwan and Einstein became the invigilators of this competition.

The four of them supervise each other and are responsible for the discipline of the inspection and the fairness of the competition.

Wilson took the stage and said:
"No whispering."

"No secret signals."

"If you have any behavior that affects the order of the exam, your exam qualification will be cancelled."

"Your country won't even be able to participate in the next competition."

"You are all real elites and should know what to do."

The examination room was so quiet that you could hear a pin drop.

No one responded, but everyone took the request to heart.

This tense atmosphere instantly made everyone's blood boil.

The game officially begins!
Soon, the four invigilators distributed the test papers.

They looked at each other, then separated and kept walking around to perform their invigilation duties.

After Wu Youxun got the test paper, he first closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and encouraged himself in his heart.

"Wu Youxun, don't be nervous, you are the strongest."

"The Physics Olympiad is just the first step in your journey to fame. The future is the real sea of ​​stars."

Then he slowly opened his eyes and began to browse the questions.

This is his own experience.

Go through all the content first to get a general idea.

Then you can think about the content while doing it, which greatly improves efficiency.

Fortunately, there are only three questions in total.

"The first question, well, is about basic mechanics."

"Oh my god, this question is too long and too complicated."

"I'm afraid I won't be able to finish this question in less than an hour."

“Just looking at the content, you can tell that there must be a lot of calculations involved.”

“This question requires basic skills.”

"The second question should be about electromagnetism."

"hiss!"

“This is too weird.”

"I have never seen this kind of electromagnetic field distribution before."

"It seems that this question requires innovative thinking."

“You must first find the angle of entry into the core.”

"However, although it is very difficult, it is still within the acceptable range."

"It's probably a bit difficult to get full marks on this question."

Soon, he looked at the third and final question.

"what?"

Wu Youxun was surprised.

“Why is there only one sentence for this question?”

"Could it be that the test paper was printed incorrectly?"

Everyone knows that the last question on a test paper is definitely the most difficult.

But a title with just one sentence can be difficult.

Wu Youxun did not read the content first, but raised his head slightly and glanced at other people out of the corner of his eye.

He found that Ye Qisun, Irena, Lan Che and others all had frowns on their faces.

But no one said anything.

The invigilators also looked calm and did not make any noise.

Wu Youxun knew what was going on.

There is no problem with the test paper.

That’s it for the third question.

So, his curiosity arose.

He looked at the last question and saw that it read:

"Suppose there is an absolutely smooth spherical rigid body with a diameter of R. How do you determine whether it is rotating?"

“Please provide a detailed analysis process.”

Wow!
At that moment, Wu Youxun was completely stunned.

He even wondered if he was dazzled.

Or maybe this world is fake.

"What's the matter?"

"What kind of question is this?"

"Am I thinking too simply?"

However, soon, Wu Youxun also began to frown slightly.

He sensed a hint of something unusual.

"No, the question is not that simple."

"There is a trap in this question."

"Could it be?"

"That's not right either. Conventional methods won't work."

"What could it be?"

At this moment, no one knew what Wu Youxun was muttering.

He was already in the middle of a brainstorm.

Nothing in the outside world has any impact on him.

However, when he thought about it deeply, he found that he had no idea where to start.

However, Wu Youxun became excited instead.

"It's a divine question. It's really a divine question."

"I would like to call this question from the principal the strongest one."

"It's so clever and so fantastic."

At this moment, Wu Youxun felt his blood boiling.

He knew that the winner of this physics competition would depend on this question.

This question is definitely the key to getting a higher score.

Wu Youxun looked around and saw that everyone had a sad look on their face.

Ye Qisun's pride was shattered at this moment.

He, a genius in the eyes of his classmates in China, finally realized his own insignificance.

He thought that during his undergraduate studies, no knowledge would be difficult for him.

Unexpectedly, I was hit hard by a blow right away.

"This question is too weird."

A few drops of sweat seeped out of Irena's pretty face.

"Huh, is this Uncle Bruce's strength?"

"No wonder he said his PhD entrance exam would be difficult."

“I didn’t expect that a competition question at the undergraduate level could be conceived to this extent.”

"Forget it. I don't have any idea for now. I'd better finish the first two first."

"I don't think many people can do this third question."

She also looked up and looked around carefully, then felt relieved.

Rancho has been very low-key since arriving in Borneo.

Because he likes to observe everything silently.

He observed the construction of the City of Science, the performance of the contestants, and every little thing about Li Qiwei.

Rancho admitted in his heart that Professor Bruce had indeed surpassed his imagination.

Especially the last question, which completely broke Rancho's inherent prejudice against exam-oriented education.

"I think the education system promoted by Professor Bruce is wrong."

"Now it seems that I am ignorant and shallow."

"This kind of thought experiment topic is the one I like and agree with the most."

“Because it does not test dead knowledge or mechanical formula calculations.”

“It’s a deep understanding of the concepts of physics.”

"Obviously, this question takes this idea to the extreme."

Lan Che was filled with endless curiosity.

Then, he actually started from the third question!

He felt that if he couldn't solve the third question, there would be no point in solving the first two.

When Raja and Farhan saw Rancho's actions, they felt disappointed.

"No, Lang Ge, don't do it, you want us, India, to be at the bottom."

The Sakura Country player, Shinji Komura, who was standing nearby, seemed to have heard the two's tragic cries.

At this moment, he felt very disappointed.

After being taught a lesson by Yoshio Nishina, Shinji Omura put in a lot of effort.

He studied the example questions over and over dozens of times.

However, this question is completely unconventional.

"Baga, I'm going to be scolded again."

However, just when many geniuses were scratching their heads and pondering.

There were a few students with smiles on their faces in the classroom.

It seems like the whole paper is very simple.

Wu Youxun looked closely and found that it was a player from the Philippine Fish Frying Team.

He was puzzled.

"Impossible, can Philippine physics be so strong?"

"Nima, you are not setting off a smoke bomb, are you?"

"You are obviously very weak, but you pretend to be very strong. It messes with my mentality."

At this moment, the Filipino fish fryer was ecstatic.

"Hahahaha!"

"The last question is too easy."

“Now the gap between our Philippine team and the European and American teams has narrowed.”

“Maybe we can even overtake.”

(End of this chapter)