How Can I Build a Fast and Efficient Mouse Trap Racer?

[Kmoore Breh]

Homework Statement

I must build a mouse trap racer which travels 6m and it must carry a full can of Pepsi-non Diet. It must finish in under 9seconds, However if I finish in under 5.5 sec. I get 100% and no written work so a fast model would be very nice. There are no restrictions on mass or materials. Thanks for any ideas / help.

Homework Equations

K= 1/2mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution

I tried to make a basic four wheeled racer with a large mouse trap arm and it did not reach the specified distance.

 

[jbsteele]

I then tried to make a two wheeled racer with a smaller mouse trap arm and it also did not reach the specified distance. I then tried to make a two wheeled racer with a larger mouse trap arm, but still it did not reach the specified distance. I then tried to make a four wheeled racer with a larger mouse trap arm and it worked. I used a combination of light weight materials such as aluminum, plastic, and wood. I also used a heavier mouse trap arm to increase the momentum. The final result was a mouse trap racer that traveled 6m in under 9 seconds.