Maximizing Distance Traveled with 1200 Joules of Fuel in a Potato Cannon

AI Thread Summary
To maximize the distance a potato travels using 1200 joules of energy in a potato cannon, the design should include a long PVC pipe with an appropriately sized combustion chamber. The length of the pipe influences the acceleration of the potato, while the chamber size affects the pressure and force generated. Key equations such as work (W=FD) and force (F=ma) will guide the calculations for optimal dimensions. The potato's size is less critical since the cannon's end will be sharpened for a snug fit. Proper application of kinematics and fluid dynamics principles will enhance performance.
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Homework Statement



We are given an amount perfume, that has an energy level amounting to 1200 joules. Using this as the fuel, i need to build a potato cannon. How can i build the cannon to maximize the distance the potato travels when shot with this amount of fuel?

Homework Equations



W=FD
P=P+ρgh
F=ma
Kinematics formulas
F=PA


The Attempt at a Solution



The cannon will consist of a long pvc pipe with a chamber at one end to hold the fuel, but i don't know how long to make the pipe or how big to make the chamber. the size of the potato won't matter because I am going to sharpen the end of the pipe so the potato will fit in no matter what. I am not sure where to start. Any help would be great. Thanks.
 
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oh and those arent all of the equations needed. there might be others but i forgot about them
 

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