Building a car without a mousetrap i'm desperate

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster is tasked with creating a car that operates without a mousetrap, expressing confusion about how to make it move using basic materials. The project appears to involve principles of physics related to motion and propulsion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various propulsion ideas, including the use of a fan and lightweight materials like styrofoam. The original poster questions the appropriateness of these suggestions in relation to the project's requirements.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered potential solutions, such as using a fan for propulsion, while others express concerns about adhering to the project's complexity requirements. Multiple ideas are being explored without a clear consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions feeling overwhelmed and desperate for help, indicating a high level of uncertainty about the project. There is also a concern about the project being too simplistic or not meeting the expected complexity.

kailey
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I am supposed to make a car similar to that of a mousetrap car, except without using a mousetrap. I have basic materials and I am completley dumfounded when it comes to making the car "go."

please help me! i am so desperate!

i originally thought that using a car to make the car go would be a good idea but i have no idea how to rig that up.
 
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a fan?
 
that's actually a really good idea. i hadn't thought of that. i just can't figure out how to rig that up.
 
use styrofoam (or something equally light), stick a fan on the back. Add wheels. Voila.
 
idk i think that would be considered "cheating." it's supposed to be some complicated physics contraption.
 

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