Ke/pe Vehicle Help: Create 5m Distance w/o Chemicals

[sarahchika05]

Ke/pe Vehicle Help!

we have to construct a vehicle for physics class that can travel the greatest distance possible. the energy must be stored "in" the vehicle as potential energy, and must have a 'rolling' aspect. we cannot use any chemical reactions or slingshot methods. it must travel atleast 5 meters.

i have absolutely no idea what to do. some people have told me something about using a folgers coffee can and putting a rod through it, but I'm still so confused. any ideas and how to construct it would save my life. and my grade!

 

[fffff]

A spring would be ideal. It would store potential energy, and once released it could release all of its energy into kinetic energy. In order to reduce friction use tires with no grooves. Make the car ain such a way that air resistance can be minimized.

 

[m2003]

I understand your struggle with this project. It can be challenging to come up with a solution that meets all the criteria while also being innovative and effective. However, there are a few principles that can guide you in designing your Ke/pe vehicle.

Firstly, potential energy is stored in an object when it is lifted or moved against a force, such as gravity. So, to create potential energy, you will need to find a way to lift or move your vehicle against a force that will store energy in it.

One idea could be to use a spring mechanism. You could attach a spring to the front of your vehicle and then release it, causing the vehicle to move forward with the stored energy from the compressed spring. This would fulfill the 'rolling' aspect of the project.

Another idea could be to use a lever system. By using a long lever arm and a fulcrum, you can lift your vehicle and store potential energy in it. Once released, the vehicle will roll forward, utilizing the stored energy.

You could also consider using a pulley system. By attaching a weight to one end of a rope and your vehicle to the other end, you can create potential energy as the weight is lifted. Once the weight is released, the vehicle will move forward.

In terms of constructing your vehicle, you could use materials such as cardboard, wood, or plastic to create the body of the vehicle. It is essential to keep the design lightweight so that it can be easily lifted or moved against a force.

I hope these ideas help guide you in designing and constructing your Ke/pe vehicle. Remember to think creatively and use the principles of potential energy to your advantage. Good luck!