High School Students Use Physics to Bust Myths at University Competition

Inspired by Discovery Channel’s “Mythbusters,” The University of Scranton’s 13th annual Kane Competition for high school students challenged more than 200 students from 16 area high schools to use physics to test – or bust – myths. Among the myths tested were if a lead balloon fly and if a needle could be thrown through a glass pane without shattering it.

The annual Kane Competition tests high school students’ knowledge of physics and engineering through a series of quizzes and interactive challenges. Students competed individually and in teams.

Sajad Delawar from Scranton High School came in first place in the individual competition. Kyle Cruser from Dunmore High School came in second place, and Hongyang Lou, Scranton Prep came in third place. Teams from North Pocono High School placed first and second in the team competition. A team from Wyoming Area High School placed third.

The competition is organized by the University’s Department of Physics and Electrical Engineering with the purpose of encouraging more students to pursue careers in physics and engineering. The Kane Competition is supported by the Joseph Kane Estate, the University’s Financial Aid Office and Physics and Electrical Engineering Department, and students in the University’s physics and electrical engineering program.

 (North Pocono Team 3)

North Pocono High School team three came won the team competition of The University of Scranton’s 13th annual Kane Competition for high school students. Seated, from left: University of Scranton Physics Instructor Nicholas Truncale, advisor John Croom, and Joshua Toth. Standing: Elisabeth Latawiec, Vincenzo Cicco, James Quimby, Nick Trinovitch, Kyle Yatsonsky and Joanna Bernatowicz.

(North Pocono Team 1)

North Pocono High School team one came in second place in the team competition.  Seated, from left: University of Scranton Physics Instructor Nicholas Truncale, advisor John Croom, and Alec Aversa. Standing: Desarae Balish, Adam Pickarski, Vincent Wojnar, Chase Notari, Chloe Pehanick and Abigail Owens.

(Wyoming Area Team 3)

Wyoming Area High School team three came in third place in the team competition Seated, from left: University of Scranton Physics Instructor Nicholas Truncale, advisor Dave Pizano, and Nicole Wright. Standing: Austin Rought, Justin Steiinberger, Brian McNew, Lauren Perry, Alee Pettit and Anna Thomas.