How to calculate the efficiency of a trebuchet?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the efficiency of a trebuchet, key parameters include the counterweight mass, sling length, and the height the weight drops. The efficiency can be determined using formulas that relate the actual measured range to the potential energy of the counterweight and the kinetic energy of the projectile. Two attempts at calculating efficiency yielded results of 36.9% and 2.53%, indicating confusion over the correct application of formulas. The gravitational potential energy (GPE) of the counterweight and kinetic energy (KE) of the projectile are crucial for accurate calculations. Understanding when to apply these equations is essential for resolving the confusion surrounding the trebuchet's efficiency.
physical..O.o
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Homework Statement



Hi, VERY URGENT and I am so confused

Find the efficiency of the optimum trebuchet.

Optimum trebuchet Specs:
Counterweight= 5kg
Sling Length= 78cm (laid out fully)
Length from fulcrum to load= 44cm
Length from fulcrum to counterweight=16cm
Height the weight drops when fired = 29.632cm
Average range = 23.7733
Weight of projectile = 46g
Gravity = -9.8

Homework Equations



KE= 1/2 mv^2 (no idea what to use this for and when, apparently we needed to, this is why i am so confused. what has it got to do with this?)

Actual measured range/ (2*(counterweight mass*distance the counterweight falls)/mass of projectile)

(Force(load)*Distance (load))/( Force(effort)*Distance(effort))

F=Ma



The Attempt at a Solution



23.7733/ (2*(5*0.29632)/0.046)
= 0.369*100
= 36.9%

OR

(0.046*-9.8*0.44)/(5*-9.8*0.16)
=0.0253
=2.53 %

im so confused
 
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physical..O.o said:

Homework Equations



KE= 1/2 mv^2 (no idea what to use this for and when, apparently we needed to, this is why i am so confused. what has it got to do with this?)

Actual measured range/ (2*(counterweight mass*distance the counterweight falls)/mass of projectile)

(Force(load)*Distance (load))/( Force(effort)*Distance(effort))

F=Ma
another equation i missed

GPE= mass of counterweight*gravity* distance weight falls
 
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