Catapult
A hands-on activity where we explore the physics behind medieval catapults — then build our own and compete to launch marshmallows the farthest.
The physics of launching an object as far as possible. A good catapult stores lots of energy in stretched rubber bands and releases it at the right angle to send a marshmallow flying.
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1. What are catapults?
Catapults are innovative launching weapons used in medieval times to hurl objects long distances using stored elastic or torsional energy.
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2. What makes a good catapult?
A stable base, lots of stored energy in the arm, and a launch angle around 45° — the sweet spot for maximum distance.
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3. Designs to build
We'll look at a few classic popsicle-stick designs so you can pick one — or invent your own hybrid.
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4. Materials & competition
Grab your kit and get ready: strongest catapult that launches a marshmallow the farthest wins.
Marshmallow Catapult Competition
You'll need
- 15 popsicle sticks
- 20 rubber bands
- 1 plastic spoon
- 2 marshmallows
Steps
- 1Get your materials.
- 2Take 40 minutes to design and build your catapult.
- 3Launch your catapults and measure the distance.
- 4Declare the winner (they get the rest of the marshmallows!).
So what's the best catapult design?