Physics of Catapults: Seeking Advice

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The discussion focuses on understanding the physics behind catapults, emphasizing the principles of tension and energy. A catapult functions by storing tension in materials like rope or wood, which is released to launch an object. Key concepts include the conservation of energy and angular momentum, which are fundamental to the mechanics of catapults. Resources such as HowStuffWorks provide additional information and plans for building catapults. Understanding these principles is crucial for grasping the underlying physics of catapult mechanisms.
Angelica
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I need help 2 figure out the phy. behind the catapult. Any ideas?
 
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Well what does a catapult do? Think about what a catapult basically is, brainstorm here.
 
Tension is stored in a piece of rope or wood from a winch. When the tension is suddenly released it hurls the object. Check out http://science.howstuffworks.com
They cover all the basic principles and will even sell you plans on how to build one if you like.

Huck
 
Big ideas in a catapult(and, indeed, in a lot of physics)

1. Conservation of energy
2. Conservation of angular momentum
 
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Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

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TL;DR Summary: I came across this question from a Sri Lankan A-level textbook. Question - An ice cube with a length of 10 cm is immersed in water at 0 °C. An observer observes the ice cube from the water, and it seems to be 7.75 cm long. If the refractive index of water is 4/3, find the height of the ice cube immersed in the water. I could not understand how the apparent height of the ice cube in the water depends on the height of the ice cube immersed in the water. Does anyone have an...
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