Simple Question: What is going to throw farther Catapult or Trebuche

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the effectiveness of catapults versus trebuchets for launching a small piece of wood. Participants highlight that catapults are often chosen for their simplicity, while trebuchets can achieve greater distances due to their design mechanics. A recommended resource for various designs is Storm the Castle's website, which provides insights into different catapult and trebuchet configurations. Ultimately, the choice between a catapult and a trebuchet hinges on the desired launch distance and complexity of the build.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to projectile motion
  • Familiarity with mechanical design concepts
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for building catapults and trebuchets
  • Experience with basic construction tools and techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of trebuchet design for optimal distance
  • Explore various catapult designs and their launch mechanisms
  • Investigate the impact of weight distribution on projectile distance
  • Learn about materials that enhance the performance of siege engines
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in engineering or physics classes, hobbyists interested in mechanical design, and anyone looking to understand the principles of projectile launch systems.

joemost
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Hopefully this is the right place to ask this.. if not really sorry

In my class I have to design something to throw a simple small piece of wood.. Everyone is trying to build a catapult.. I am not sure what to build.. a trebuchet or a catapult and what specific design is going to give me the farthest launch..Any ideas?

I found a cool site that lists a ton of different designs.. http://stormthecastle.com/catapult/index.htm still not sure what would be the most effective
 
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I think the reason your classmates are trying to build a catapult is due to the level of complexity involved. If you were to build a trebuchet, how would you go about it?
 

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