kjgnjegmbekrmbemb erkgnelrkgb ejgnbjerbjrekgnbgbdfkjgbn ebggbtb tgbghThroughout this catapult project, I was assisted by my mom. To start, I looked up various catapult images online to get a good idea of how to construct it and what materials would be best. After looking at numerous catapults, I combined the idea of using PVC material from some images, and the actual physical set up from others to help me design it. By knowing from physics class that the highest and farthest an object would go if catapulted is if it’s stopped at a 45 degree angle, I drew an outline to set up the exact design. I also found an elastic band that I knew would be perfect for the resistance on the actual catapult arm. While physically constructing it, my mother cut the PVC pipes to the appropriate sizes after I measured them, and I put together the catapult using PVC pipe connectors and tape.
Once I first launched it, it didn’t go far or high enough. This was because I was originally used a bungee cord for the resistance, which wasn’t stretchy enough and didn’t allow me to pull the arm far back enough. I then changed it to the elastic band, allowing it to go the proper height and distance. But, the catapult also wouldn’t stay completely intact after trying it a few times, so I taped over the PVC connectors to assure it would stay together. Lastly, I measured it one more time and found the catapult itself was a half inch over the maximum, so my mother had to cut the arm slightly shorter. After this, my catapult was complete.
Throughout this experience, I learned more about the physics of a catapult. I used my knowledge of the 45 degree angle causing the highest height, and got to put it to use in a physical demonstration. I also learned about the significance of the tension for the catapult arm and how much that affected the distance and height of the hacky sack. Being able to apply my physics knowledge to a hands-on project gave me perspective on how physics relates to real-life things. The ideas used in building the catapult are ideas that can be used often in engineering skills and
