Physics of Catapults: Seeking Advice

  • Thread starter Thread starter Angelica
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the physics principles behind catapults, focusing on the mechanics and energy transformations involved in their operation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are brainstorming the fundamental functions of a catapult and considering the underlying physics concepts such as tension, energy conservation, and angular momentum.

Discussion Status

The conversation is in an exploratory phase, with participants sharing ideas and concepts related to catapults. Some guidance has been offered regarding key physics principles, but no consensus or specific solutions have emerged yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are encouraged to think critically about the basic principles of catapults without relying on external plans or solutions. The focus remains on understanding the physics rather than constructing a device.

Angelica
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I need help 2 figure out the phy. behind the catapult. Any ideas?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Well what does a catapult do? Think about what a catapult basically is, brainstorm here.
 
Tension is stored in a piece of rope or wood from a winch. When the tension is suddenly released it hurls the object. Check out http://science.howstuffworks.com
They cover all the basic principles and will even sell you plans on how to build one if you like.

Huck
 
Big ideas in a catapult(and, indeed, in a lot of physics)

1. Conservation of energy
2. Conservation of angular momentum
 

Similar threads

Building a Marble Catapult
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Energy transfer/loss in catapult
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Could electromagnetism work in a catapult?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Calculating Launch Speed for a Catapult with Drag Force
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Catapult Lab Help: Calculating Projectile Motion and Energy | Physics Lab Tips
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Simple Question: What is going to throw farther Catapult or Trebuche
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Catapult spring, Kinetic and Potential energy
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Calculating the Velocity of a Catapulted Object
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Catapult Trigger: Creative Ideas for Pulling String
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
11K
Potential energy of rubber bands
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
8K