how would i build a catapult using
35 popsicle sticks
2 ft of duct tape
2 straws
2 rubber bands
2 plastic spoons
1 posterboard base
To build a catapult using the materials you have, follow these steps:
1. Lay the posterboard base on a flat surface. This will serve as the foundation for your catapult.
2. Take 8 popsicle sticks and arrange them side by side. Use the duct tape to secure them together, forming a rectangular shape. This will become the base of your catapult.
3. Take 4 popsicle sticks and tape them together in a triangular shape to create the support structure for the catapult arm. Repeat this step with the remaining 4 popsicle sticks to create a second triangular support structure.
4. Attach one end of each triangular support structure to either side of the rectangular base, forming an upside-down "V" shape.
5. Take one of the straws and align it horizontally across the top of the triangular support structures. Tape it securely to each support. This straw will serve as the guide for the catapult arm.
6. Place one of the spoons on the end of the straw that extends beyond the triangular support structure. Use a rubber band to secure the spoon onto the straw. Make sure it is tight enough to hold the spoon in place, but loose enough for it to be able to move freely.
7. Attach the second straw to the opposite side of the catapult arm structure, right below the first straw. This straw will serve as the pivot point for the catapult arm.
8. Take the second spoon and attach it to the free end of the second straw using a rubber band. Again, ensure it is secure while allowing it to move freely.
9. To launch objects with your catapult, place them inside the spoon attached to the arm. Pull back on the arm and release to fling objects across the room.
Remember, safety should be a priority while launching objects with a catapult. Ensure that no one is in the trajectory of the launched object to prevent accidents or injuries.
To build a catapult using the given materials, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Catapult Base
- Take the posterboard base and lay it flat on a table or floor.
- This base will provide stability and support for the catapult.
Step 2: Construct the Catapult Frame
- Take 15 popsicle sticks and lay them side by side vertically on the posterboard base.
- Use the duct tape to secure the sticks together, running the tape along both sides of the sticks, creating a sturdy frame.
Step 3: Attach the Launching Arm
- Take 10 popsicle sticks and bind them together securely with duct tape at one end.
- Attach this bundle of popsicle sticks to the top of the frame, opposite to the base, forming an inverted "V" shape.
- Use duct tape to fix the launching arm to the frame, ensuring it is securely attached.
Step 4: Add the Spoon Cup
- Take one plastic spoon and tape it securely to the end of the launching arm.
- Ensure the convex surface of the spoon is facing up and is aligned with the direction in which the projectile will be launched.
Step 5: Create the Tension Mechanism
- Attach one end of a rubber band to the bottom of the frame, near the base.
- Stretch the rubber band horizontally and attach the other end to the top of the launching arm, near the spoon.
- Repeat this step with the second rubber band, positioning it parallel to the first rubber band, but slightly above it.
Step 6: Strengthen the Catapult
- Take the remaining 10 popsicle sticks and use them to reinforce the frame and the launching arm.
- Attach them vertically, horizontally, or diagonally using duct tape to increase the overall stability and strength of the catapult.
Step 7: Modify the Straws
- Cut the two straws into four equal pieces, each about 6 inches in length.
Step 8: Apply Finishing Touches
- Attach one piece of straw to the lower portion of the frame using duct tape, making a guide track for the launching arm to move freely in an up-and-down motion.
- Attach the second piece of straw to the upper portion of the frame, aligning it with the first straw.
Your catapult using the given materials is now complete. Remember to handle it safely and responsibly during use.