I really need assistance in starting a project that is due in 2 weeks. I basically need to create a gravity-powered vehicle that will go travel down a ramp, go across the floor 1 meter away and hit a wall. The catch is that there will be a "passenger" (an egg) and a safety belt needs to be added to ensure protection.

constraints:
-car must be less than 15 cm long, less than 200 g in mass, have a minimum of 2 rotating wheels, and the body of the car cannot be previously constructed (so no legos, hot wheels, etc.)

I also must submit a journal that will give detailed instructions on the materials I used to create the car and how I constructed it.
I'm currently struggling with figuring out which physics concepts are applicable to this project. I'm lost at where to start (i won't be procrastinating on this one!)

In my physics class, we have learned:
speed, velocity, acceleration, kinematics, trigonometry, vectors, 2-dimensional motion (projectiles, horizontal motion, angles), newton's 3 laws, forces (applied, gravitational, normal, tension, spring, friction), friction & inclines, circular motion, torqe, centripetal force, horizontal & vertical circles & minimum velocity, and universal gravitation
so i just need a "push in the right direction" on where to begin..

So far I have gathered some materials that i think will be useful in constructing my car. Old CD's, pipe cleaners, cereal boxes, construction paper, duct tape, etc. My teacher will be giving us the angle of the ramp and the height off the ground. I have an idea that it will include universal gravitation. I probably will also have to ind the acceleration and the revolutions per second of the wheels, right? I've just learned so much information at once and don't yet know how to apply it to a real world situation. (my teacher is very "straight from the book" and doesn't really give us universal examples)

ANY help in how to start this project would be tremendously appreciated!
thanks y'all :)

Why does it have to be a "car"? Why cant it be a tube, as a pringles can, with two large lids for wheels on the ends? The egg could be wrapped in bubble wrap inside.

Did you get an answer for this? I'm in 9th grade and am doing the same problem

Starting a project can indeed be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can become a manageable task. In order to create a gravity-powered vehicle that meets the given constraints, you will need to apply various physics concepts. Let's break down the problem and determine the steps to get you started:

1. Understand the requirements: First, make sure you fully understand the project constraints and specifications. Take note of the allowed dimensions, mass, and the requirement for rotating wheels. This will help you narrow down your options when choosing materials for construction.

2. Analyze the motion: The project involves a ramp, horizontal motion, and hitting a wall. You need to consider the concepts of kinematics, forces, and energy to understand how to design and construct your vehicle.

3. Design the vehicle: Start brainstorming and sketching different designs for your vehicle. Consider the materials you have gathered, such as old CDs, pipe cleaners, cereal boxes, and construction paper. Think about how you can utilize them to create a structure that meets the size and mass requirements. For example, you might use cereal boxes for the body and CD wheels for rotation.

4. Calculate speed and acceleration: You mentioned that your teacher will provide the angle of the ramp and the height off the ground. This information is essential in determining the speed and acceleration of your vehicle. Use the equations of motion and trigonometry to calculate the values. This will help you understand how your vehicle will move along the ramp and across the floor.

5. Consider forces: As your vehicle moves, various forces will act upon it. Think about how gravitational force, friction force, and normal force will influence the motion of your vehicle. Consider the implications of Newton's laws of motion and energy conservation principles in your design.

6. Ensure passenger safety: The project requires you to add a safety belt to protect the "passenger" (egg) inside the vehicle. Think about how you can incorporate this safety feature into your vehicle's design. Consider using pipe cleaners or other materials to create a secure cradle for the egg.

7. Document your process: As you go through the project, make sure to keep a journal. Write down detailed instructions on the materials you used, how you constructed the car, and the rationale behind your design choices. This will help you when it comes to submitting your final project.

Remember, this is just a general guide to get you started. You will need to apply your understanding of the physics concepts you have learned to solve the specific challenges presented by the project. Don't be afraid to experiment, iterate, and ask your teacher for clarification whenever necessary. Good luck with your project!