Designing a Mousetrap Car for Optimal Distance: A Physics Project

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on constructing a mousetrap car for a Physics project, specifically designed to transport a soda can a precise distance using only the energy from the mousetrap. Participants suggest various designs, including a mechanism where the mousetrap is connected to a string wrapped around a spool with teeth that engages another spool to drive the wheels. The conversation emphasizes the importance of material selection and mechanical design to achieve optimal performance without external energy sources.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to energy and motion
  • Familiarity with mechanical systems and simple machines
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for building lightweight structures
  • Experience with basic engineering design concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective designs for mousetrap cars, focusing on gear ratios and wheel sizes
  • Explore materials such as lightweight wood or plastic for optimal construction
  • Learn about energy transfer mechanisms in mechanical systems
  • Investigate testing methods to measure distance and performance of the mousetrap car
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in physics classes, hobbyists interested in mechanical engineering, and educators looking for hands-on project ideas to teach principles of motion and energy.

Garabaldi
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Hello and sorry about deviating from the provided format,

I need to construct a mousetrap car for Physics class; it must transport a soda can an exact distance from the starting point. There may be no additional sources of energy other than the mousetrap and no kit cars may be used.

Unfortunately, the teacher distributed this project without any instruction about what materials should be used or how to make a car. Now I'm lost...I've read several internet resources regarding this topic but still am not clear as to what materials to buy/how to construct a car that can best complete this task.

I'd really appreciate it if you guys could help me out - thanks in advance.
 
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first thing that came to my mind. and now i want to build one.

There are many different ways to build them. I instantly thought of this. The mousetrap would be tied to a string which is wrapped around a spool which has some teeth that touche another spool with teeth which would drive the wheels. Of course the string cannot be tied to the spool, just the mousetrap. As for the can, I'm sure it would be no problem to integrate that.

forgot an arrow, where the mousetrap swings right --->
 
 
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