String energy transfer from mousetrap to axle of wheels

[mhaque]

Well, we have a Physics project which requires us to build a car and power this using energy provided by a mousetrap. We may not add other energy sources to power the car; we can only use the mousetrap provided to power the car.

Homework Equations

Now, thinking about strings and energy transfer, I thought that maybe by taping string to the snappy end of the mousetrap, and then tying the other end to the axle, which is attached to the wheels, I could transfer energy from the mousetrap to the wheels. However, I'm worried about the string bundling or curling up when the axle spins to power the wheels. What should I do?

 

[BigJDubs]

One way to prevent string from curling up when the axle spins is to use pulleys. Pulleys are devices that use grooved wheels and a rope or cable to redirect the force of a pulled or lifted weight. The grooves of the wheel help hold the rope or cable in place as it moves, allowing for smooth energy transfer without curling or bunching up. You could attach the rope or cable to the snappy end of the mousetrap and then attach the other end to the axle. This will help transfer energy from the mousetrap to the axle without the string bunching up.