Physics concepts of a trebuchet

[jbisel]

I need to be able to build a trebuchet,write a 15 page technical paper on it, and give a 5 minute speech on the different concepts of a trebuchet.

I have never taken physics being a biology kid myself. So therefore I know only very basic physics. I will of course need to do a lot of research... but if you were to list some of the more important things relating to a trebuchet to discuss, what would they be? Any help would be appreciated. This is for a Nationals competition.

 

[berkeman]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trebuchet is a good place to start.

You will also want to learn a bit about kinematic equations -- that's how you calculate the acceleration and motion of the mass based on the forces and torques applied.


Some of the equations and web pointers in this recent PF thread may help as well.

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=151000