Building a Mousetrap Car for High School Physics Class

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on building a mousetrap car for a high school physics project, specifically designed to move forward 3 meters, backward 2 meters, and then forward again 3 meters using only a mousetrap as the power source. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the mechanics of the mousetrap and suggest reviewing resources like the Wikipedia article and the Doc Fizzix website for design ideas. The challenge lies in achieving the specified movement sequence effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics principles related to motion and force
  • Familiarity with the mechanics of a mousetrap
  • Knowledge of simple machines and their applications
  • Experience with basic engineering design processes
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of mousetrap cars and their design principles
  • Explore the Doc Fizzix website for specific design strategies for reversible motion
  • Investigate different materials and configurations to optimize car performance
  • Learn about energy transfer and efficiency in mechanical systems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school physics students, educators involved in hands-on science projects, and hobbyists interested in engineering principles and mechanical design.

CGC0805
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Member has been advised to post such question in the homework forums in the future.
I am in a high school physics class and have been recently assigned a mouse trap. We were given a mouse trap, that is all, and sent out on our own to create one. The requirements for this specific mousetrap car are to go forward 3 meters, then backwards 2 meters, and finally forward three meters again.
The mouse trap has to be our only source of power and we cannot use a rat trap. Any Suggestions would be great.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Have you looked on the web? There is even a Wikipedia article.
 
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Likes   Reactions: berkeman
Yes I did but it doesn't help with the idea of forwards backwards then forwards again
 

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