Construct a homemade tissue box catapult
In the realm of DIY projects, the elastic catapult is a classic favourite, especially for those seeking a hands-on approach to learning physics principles. This article will guide you through the process of constructing a simple elastic catapult using everyday materials like LEGO bricks, popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and soft projectiles such as pom-poms.
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### Materials Needed:
- **Base material:** LEGO bricks, craft sticks (popsicle sticks), or chopsticks - **Elastic element:** Rubber bands or elastic bands - **Throwing arm:** A spoon, LEGO beam, craft stick, or chopstick - **Projectile:** Pom-poms, marshmallows, cotton balls, small foam balls, or rolled kitchen foil
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### Step-by-Step Construction:
1. **Build the base/fulcrum:** - Create a stable base by stacking LEGO bricks or craft sticks tightly. - The base should support the catapult arm and allow it to pivot. - Secure the base with rubber bands if using craft sticks.
2. **Prepare the throwing arm:** - Attach the throwing arm (a LEGO beam, spoon, or stick) to the base so it can pivot. - Use a rubber band or a pin as a fulcrum point, allowing the arm to move up and down.
3. **Add the elastic force:** - Wrap rubber bands around the arm and base to create tension. - Pulling the arm back stretches the rubber bands, storing potential energy.
4. **Create a projectile holder:** - Attach a small scoop or cup to the arm’s end (e.g., a spoon or a small LEGO piece). - Place a pom-pom or similar soft projectile into the holder.
5. **Test and adjust:** - Pull the arm back against the tension of the rubber bands. - Release to launch the projectile. - Adjust the tension or arm length to change distance and accuracy.
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### How It Works:
- The **elastic bands** store *potential energy* when stretched as you pull back the throwing arm. - Releasing the arm converts this stored energy into *kinetic energy*. - The arm acts like a lever, flinging the projectile forward and converting the elastic tension into motion. - The base and fulcrum provide a pivot point maximizing leverage and energy transfer.
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### Additional Project Ideas:
- **Experiment with different materials:** Use LEGO bricks as the frame, vary projectiles (pom-poms, cotton balls, polystyrene balls) to compare flight distances. - **Modify arm length or elastic strength:** See how changes affect launching power and accuracy. - **Build themed catapults:** Create Roman-style or mini catapults using chopsticks and rubber bands for historical STEAM learning. - **Challenge:** Create a target game by aiming pom-poms at a set distance for accuracy practice.
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This simple elastic catapult design is perfect for hands-on STEAM learning, demonstrating physics principles like energy conversion, levers, and elasticity using accessible materials. It can be built easily with LEGO bricks, popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and soft projectiles like pom-poms for fun and educational projects.
It is essential to remember that safety precautions should be followed, especially when involving young individuals. It is recommended that those under 18 have an adult present during the construction process.
Happy building!
Technology and science come together in a fun and educational project as you construct a simple yet effective elastic catapult using everyday materials like LEGO bricks, popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and soft projectiles such as pom-poms. This DIY project, suitable for home-and-garden activities, can be a great addition to your lifestyle, offering a hands-on approach to learning physics principles like energy conversion, levers, and elasticity.
