Physics Car Project

In physics class today, we tested the first of our four design/build projects (car, catapult, bridge, and boat).  These projects give the students a break from pencil-and-paper calculations and allow them to apply physics concepts in a fun and informal way.  The objective of this project was to build a self-propelled car.  No electric, chemical, or rigid pressured containers could be used.  Students used rubber bands, mousetraps, balloons, and even tape measures to provide the energy to drive their cars.  The car was graded on a variety of factors, including distance travelled.  21 feet gained the maximum possible number of points, but most cars went much further (this year, the furthest went 72 feet).  Here are links to some videos of the cars in action.






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