ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024, THE applied PHYSICS PROGRAMme ORGANIsED A WINTER SYMPOSIUM FOR APPROXIMATELY 150 STUDENTS AND lecturers FROM applied PHYSICS.
During this event, inspiring speakers shared their expertise on the physics of snow and ice.
FROM SNOW CRYSTALS TO ICE ICE BABY
On Friday afternoon, the students kicked off the event with a fascinating lecture by Marc Dhalle, delving into the creation of the extreme cold and the art of making your parents very happy at the same time 😊. He illustrated the entropy of a system with a fitting analogy, drawing parallels to the act of organising your room. Following that, Pantelis Bampoulis captivated the audience with an educational presentation on the beautiful structures of snow crystals and the unique features of each crystal.
After the break, Alvaro Marin shared insights into the physics of winter sports and the ongoing efforts of scientists to understand the complexity behind skating. The symposium concluded with a presentation by Sander Huisman, who addressed the melting of icebergs with impressive images and complex theories.
In addition to the educational aspect, there was also plenty of room for fun. Alvaro Marin surprised the students with the introduction of the '90s song "Vanilla Ice Ice Baby."
The day ended with a sociable gathering where discussions extended into all that was covered during the symposium. Yet, no one could stay out too late, as an early program awaited the next day...
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE ON THE SNOWY SLOPES
At 6:50 AM, enthusiastic AP students and AP lecturers gathered at the Spiegel, marking the beginning of an unforgettable day in the snow. Shortly after 7:00 AM, the buses departed for the enchanting Winterberg, where a day filled with adventure and hands-on experience awaited.
Upon arrival, participants had the opportunity to translate the theoretical knowledge acquired during the symposium into practice. Some opted for the adrenaline rush on skis and snowboards, while others explored the serene winter landscapes during an inspiring hike.
At the end of the day, the buses returned filled with stories, experiences, and perhaps a hint of snow in their hair. Around 9:00 PM, the group was back in Enschede, tired but satisfied from a day where a passion for physics merged with the magic of the snow. The event was not only educational but also brought an undeniable sense of belonging and satisfaction.
