Gravity car/module/contraption thingy

  • Thread starter bhavana1012
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In summary, the conversation is about designing a module for a physics project that will race down an incline. The main concerns are aerodynamics and minimizing friction. Ideas for the design include using wheels or cylinders, and conducting experiments to determine which would be most effective. The suggestion to look at soapbox derby designs is also mentioned.
  • #1
bhavana1012
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For physics we have to come up with a module that works just on gravity. We're racing them, so aerodynamics are a major concern. I know it should be dense, mass packed close to the center of mass, but I don't know if I should use wheels, or cylinders, or where to go from the basics :/ any ideas on what would be the fastest, most aerodynamic gravity contraption to roll down an incline?
 
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  • #2
Do some experiments: Take a toy car roll it down a hill. Take a can of beans and roll it down a hill. which one rolls straighter. Add some weight to the car...

Keep in mind you want to keep friction to a minimum. Is the road surface bumpy then maybe wheels will work better (less contact on the road than a cylinder).

Checkout soapbox derby designs. Oh and lest I forget to mention: do some experiments.
 
  • #3
jedishrfu said:
Do some experiments: Take a toy car roll it down a hill. Take a can of beans and roll it down a hill. which one rolls straighter. Add some weight to the car...

Keep in mind you want to keep friction to a minimum. Is the road surface bumpy then maybe wheels will work better (less contact on the road than a cylinder).

Checkout soapbox derby designs. Oh and lest I forget to mention: do some experiments.

The plane is just a regular piece of plywood, fairly smooth! Thank you!
 
  • #4
so now look at the front of your module, if its a cylinder then it looks like a rectangle coming toward you. Next look at a car coming toward which presents less area? so now which is better wheels or cylinder?
 
  • #5


I would first like to commend you on your interest in designing a gravity-based car/module/contraption for your physics project. Gravity is a fundamental force in our universe and understanding its effects on objects is crucial in many fields of science.

In terms of designing a gravity contraption for racing, there are a few key factors to consider. As you mentioned, density and mass distribution are important for maximizing the force of gravity on your contraption. Additionally, aerodynamics play a crucial role in minimizing air resistance and allowing your contraption to reach higher speeds.

One idea for a fast and aerodynamic gravity contraption could be to use a streamlined shape, such as a teardrop or bullet shape, with a dense and compact mass distribution at the center of mass. This would allow for a smoother and more streamlined flow of air over the contraption, reducing drag and increasing speed.

In terms of the type of wheels or cylinders to use, it would depend on the surface of the incline you will be racing on. If it is a smooth surface, smaller and more streamlined wheels would be ideal. However, if the surface is rough or uneven, larger and more rugged wheels may be more effective.

Another important factor to consider is the angle of the incline. The steeper the incline, the greater the force of gravity acting on the contraption, potentially leading to higher speeds. However, too steep of an incline may also lead to instability and loss of control of the contraption.

In conclusion, the key to designing a fast and aerodynamic gravity contraption is to find the right balance between density, mass distribution, and aerodynamics. Experimentation and testing different designs can also help determine the most effective approach. Good luck with your project!
 

1. How does a gravity car/module/contraption thingy work?

A gravity car/module/contraption thingy works by utilizing the force of gravity to move objects without the use of external power sources. It typically consists of a ramp or track with a slope, along which the object will travel due to the pull of gravity. This type of device follows Newton's Laws of Motion, specifically the law of gravity, which states that objects will be pulled towards the center of the Earth with a force proportional to their mass.

2. What materials are needed to build a gravity car/module/contraption thingy?

The materials needed to build a gravity car/module/contraption thingy can vary depending on the design and purpose of the device. However, some common materials used include wood, plastic, metal, and other lightweight materials. The key is to have a sturdy and smooth ramp or track, as well as a lightweight object to travel down the slope.

3. Can a gravity car/module/contraption thingy be used for transportation?

Yes, a gravity car/module/contraption thingy can be used for transportation, but it would require a larger and more complex design than the typical ones used for experiments or demonstrations. Some amusement parks, such as roller coasters, use gravity and momentum to transport people along a track. However, these devices often have additional safety mechanisms and external power sources.

4. Can a gravity car/module/contraption thingy be used in space?

Yes, a gravity car/module/contraption thingy can be used in space, but it would require modifications to account for the lack of gravity. In space, objects experience microgravity, which means they are constantly in a state of free-fall and do not experience the pull of gravity as strongly as on Earth. Therefore, a gravity car/module/contraption thingy in space would need to be designed to work in a microgravity environment.

5. What are some real-world applications of a gravity car/module/contraption thingy?

A gravity car/module/contraption thingy has many real-world applications, including amusement park rides, roller coasters, and water slides. It can also be used in transportation systems, such as ski lifts and funiculars. In addition, gravity cars have been used in scientific experiments to study the effects of gravity on different objects and materials. They can also be used in educational settings to demonstrate the principles of gravity and motion.

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