Isabella Kunsak

Ms. Goodwin

Conceptual Physics

December 12, 2017

Catapult Project

The catapult has been around since 400BC. The first catapult that was built was in Syracus, Greece. I
thought it would be a great idea to build one myself. I want to build a catapult that can launched up to ten meters in
the maximum of three seconds. I want to learn how to apply the laws of Physics and equations for projectile motion
to my catapult ideas. For my design I decided to use CPVC pipe because I wanted something strong and sturdy so
when I launched my object it would have a stronger force, and bigger overall distance traveled. Using this design
affects my accuracy because the pipe I used was linked in together with CPVC fittings, so my catapult can’t budge
when I launch it. Then when I aliened my launching pipe with the target it hits there exactly. I think this is the best
design because it is sturdy, and accurate. The physics equations I need to use are time, angle, initial velocity,
velocity in the y direction, and velocity in the x direction.

Design Plan

Materials Used:

 CPVC glue
 Hot glue
 Plastic spoon
 CPVC pipe
 Pipe elbows
 Pipe “T” fittings
 Rubber bands
 Pipe caps
 CPVC Pipe Cutter

****diagram of catapult on back

Data Analysis

Distance(x) Time Angle Vx Vy Vi

7m 1.52s 72.83 4.60m/s 14.896m.s 15.59m/s
7m 1.43s 70.76 4.89m/s 14.014m/s 14.84m/s
10m 2.12s 77.22 4.71m/s 20.776m/s 21.31m/s

Average velocity of projectile: 4.73m/s

To get my initial velocity I took the square root of my velocity in the x direction, squared, plus my velocity in the y
direction, squared.

If I were to change my angle I launched my catapult at it would affect my trajectory, and initial velocity. This is
because when we calculate projectile motion, we determine the value of the horizontal and vertical directions
separately. So therefore, if I were to change one of the horizonal or vertical directions it would change the initial
velocity, and trajectory.
My project was effective because my catapult design was very well thought out. The CPVC pipe allowed me to
accurately, and precisely hit my target without bending and changing the angle, due to its durability. Something I do
wish I could have changed was using more rubber bands, so the tension would have been stronger, and it would
have launched faster. The calculation methods I used for my project are like those used for more sophisticated
launches such as satellites and other space objects. But they can also be used in sports such as golf. The angle the
golfer hits the ball at determines the overall distance it will travel and land.