The Distance a Trebuchet Catapult Can Throw Projectiles of Different Masses: A Study in Energy Transfer

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective of this experiment was to determine if the mass of a projectile affects the distance it will travel when launched from a trebuchet type catapult. It was hypothesized that the lightest projectile would receive the greatest amount of energy transferred from the catapult and travel the furthest distance. Methods/Materials A catapult is any non-held machine that hurls an object without the aid of an explosive substance. It works through a central lever that is mounted "counterpoise" and has a see-saw movement. A trebuchet is a type of catapult that was used in Europe in siege warfare during the Middle Ages. A miniature model of the trebuchet was purchased on-line and constructed. A marshmallow, a foosball, and a golf ball were weighed. The weight of the projectiles was the only variable in the experiment. The sling length and the weight in the counterweight were fixed variables. Each projectile was launched twelve times to determine the average distance traveled. Results The marshmallow traveled an average distance of 40.38 cm. The foosball traveled an average distance of 29.44 cm. The golf ball traveled an average distance of 16.34 cm. Conclusions/Discussion The results supported ny hypothesis. The marshmallow, the lightest projectile, clearly traveled the furthest distance in this experiment because the marshmallow received a greater amount of energy from the trebuchet than the heavier objects.

Awards (1)

• Honorable Mention

Competition history

• CSEF 2009 Applied Mechanics & Structures · Entry J0224

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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