Adjustable Catapult Phyics Experiment

thingiverse

This is a 129x106x116 catapult with holes to adjust the launch angle and windup positions. The cup has dimensions of 30x30x15 mm and I've included a payload for use. Due to printer issues, (my printer broke), I couldn't print this Thing.\n\nProject: Adjustable Catapult\nObjectives:\nStudents learn how release angles and windups affect the projectile's trajectory. They discover best positions for distance and height.\nAudiences:\nThis project is designed for 4th through 9th grade students with no prior physics knowledge, as it introduces them to physics.\nPreparation:\nStudents need a worksheet, rubber bands, pipe cleaners, and a meter stick. They must also know the Scientific Method for this experiment.\nSteps:\nPrint all .stl files except "Adjustable Catapult." Divide students into groups of 3-5 and give each a catapult.\nInsert an axle through one pylon's single hole and another start angle hole on the catapult, then out the other pylon. To set launch angles, insert an axle through the other holes on the pylon. Attach rubber bands to arm protrusions and base protrusions, wrapping pipe cleaners around launch axles for safety.\nLaunch by pressing the arm down until it touches the base. Have students record distance and max height in cm. Test all combinations of start and launch angles and note findings in a 3x3 chart.\nResults:\nThe students discover that starting vertical and firing at 45 degrees gives longest distance, while starting vertical and launching horizontal yields most height. To grade, check if the conclusion was correct and if they completed the assignment.