Catapult Physics

Catapult Physics

Let's Design, Construct and Test Catapults !

For this challenge you will design, construct, and test a Catapult designed to launch a projectile for accuracy and distance.

Introduction:

Use the Internet to find the definitions to the terms in the Trebuchet Vocabulary worksheet

Launch the following simulation to discover the optimum angle to launch projectiles using catapult - Catapult Practice

Supplies:

Objective:

Design, construct and test a mouse trap catapult. Your catapult will be evaluated on accuracy and distance. Both accuracy and distance are effected by the quality of construction, the length of the throwing arm and the angle of projectile release.

Hints:

Formula for catapult range:

r = range

v = velocity

g = gravity constant

θ = angle of launch

Note a plastic spoon can be used instead of the cap used in the video.
Determine whether the length of the throwing arm is important to both accuracy and distance and adjust the length of spoon protruded from the throwing arm.
Determine whether the launch angle is important to both accuracy and distance and adjust the bolt to the desired launch angle.

Instructions:

- Launch the following video to see the instructions on how to make your mouse trap catapult - Mouse Trap Catapult Construction
- Students can also use the Mouse Trap Catapult binder shown below for instructions on how to constructed your catapult.

Using a HOT GLUE GUN can be hazardous if you don't follow directions

Do not allow any part of your body to come in contact with hot glue or the tip of the hot glue gun
Be extremely careful when using the gun, DO NOT allow hot glue or the tip of the gun to touch another student
Any student who engages in horseplay while using a hot glue gun will be removed from the lab for disciplinary action.

Step by Step Procedure:

- If you're using a "Vic" mouse trap, no modification is required.
- If you're using a "Pic" mouse trap, modify mouse trap as shown:

- After making the necessary changes to your mouse trap, follow the instructions for completing the mouse trap catapult using the binder or the Mouse Trap Catapult Construction video.

Assessments:

Catapult accuracy (100 points) - Students must hit a target between 10-20' within two attempts.
Catapult distance (100 points) - Students must launch a projectile a minimum of 10-20' within two attempts.
How do different devices store energy? webquest (50 points)

Page updated

Report abuse