How to build a cart that moves from suspended mass

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a project for a grade 11 Physics class, focusing on designing and building a car powered solely by a suspended mass. The goal is to maximize both the distance and speed of the car's movement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various design ideas, such as using a pulley system to maximize the distance the mass can fall. Questions arise regarding the balance between acceleration and stability, as well as the potential use of elastic materials to enhance grip on the axle for increased speed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing initial ideas and questioning the effectiveness of different design elements. There is a focus on exploring various approaches to improve the car's performance without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering constraints related to the project requirements, such as the exclusive use of a suspended mass for energy and the need for the car to travel both far and fast.

DylanMX
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I have a project to do for my Physics class in grade 11. I have to design and build a car that will move in a forward direction. The source of energy for this car must be a suspended mass. The mass can be anything that is located anywhere. The car cannot have any other source of energy. It also must go as far and as fast as possible. Please help me with some ideas. Thanks.
 
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What ideas have you come up with so far?
 
If you put a pole on top of it with a pulley or some such, the weight will have a large distance to fall. If wound around a small axle with large wheels, it will travel pretty far assuming:

1. It has enough force to accelerate
2. the combination of acceleration and tallness doesn't cause it to tip over.
 
That is somewhat the same idea i had
I was just wondering if there was a faster way to get more speed cause i was afraid the car wouldn't move too far.
Would it be better to use some sort of elastic or rubber string of some sort so there will be more grip on the axle?
 

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