How does a mousetrap car relate to physics?
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Consequently, how does a mousetrap work physics?
When a mousetrap is set, the spring in the center is compressed, becoming a source full of potential energy. This energy is being stored, not used, but as soon as the trap is released, it is converted to kinetic energy (the energy of motion) that propels the snapper arm forward.
Also, what simple machines are in a mousetrap car? The six simple machines are: the inclined plane, the wedge, the screw, the lever, the wheel and axle, and the pulley. Understanding the principles of these simple machines will help you design your mousetrap vehicle.
Keeping this in view, what is the purpose of a mousetrap car?
A mousetrap car uses the stored energy of a mousetrap spring to generate forward motion. In competitions, the goal of the mousetrap car is to achieve as much forward motion as possible, on a flat surface and/or on an inclined surface. In other words, the goal is to maximize the distance traveled on both these surfaces.
What will make a mousetrap car go faster?
Making The Vehicle Faster
- Thicken the axle: Wrapping some tape radially around the axle or adding a spool. It may be surprising as to how much faster this makes the vehicle.
- Use smaller wheels. They will require less force to complete a rotation.
- Make the vehicle lighter.