July 10, 2018 12:25 Competitive Physics 9.61in x 6.
69in b3146-fm page v
Dedication
The Physics Olympiads were some of my most enjoyable experiences in high
school and I hope to share the elegance of problem-solving, prevalent in such
competitions, with more people. Writing this book has really been a fulfilling
journey that has evoked many moments of nostalgia, ranging from the thrill
of solving a problem to my past struggles when learning about physics. I am
extremely grateful to the following people who have supported me in the
course of writing — during my hardest times in National Service — in one
way or another.
My co-author, Bernard Ricardo. I can safely say that he is one of the best
physics educators in Singapore. His enthusiasm and illuminating pedagogy
during his lessons for the Physics Olympiad national training team inspired
me to pursue and teach physics. It has been a joy working with him and his
many insights have added a novel perspective to this book.
My teachers, Tan Jing Long, Mr Kwek Wei Hong and Mrs Ng Siew Hoon.
I still remember the quirky jokes that the class makes during your lessons.
Thank you for introducing me to physics and infecting me with your love
for the subject.
My students, Cui Zizai, Mao Ziming, Chang Hexiang, Guo Yulong,
Andrew Ke Yanzhe, Ryan Wong Jun Hui and many more. It was a plea-
sure to teach you and your inquisitiveness in our lessons together was a
great source of motivation during my conscription. I am also grateful to you
for proofreading chapters of this book and providing constructive feedback.
My friends, Jiang Yue and Ma Weijia. Thank you for taking time out from
your busy university schedules to draw numerous diagrams for this book as
I was preoccupied with National Service. This milestone would literally not
have been possible without you.
