The Physics of Mousetrap Cars Milbank High School

Discussion What were some of the design aspects that made certain cars perform better than others? What were some bad design ideas? What were some ways that we could further improve our cars? Longer cars? Larger wheels? Less friction?

Discussion Cont If we had a speed competition, what would be the best way to modify our cars?

The Physics of Mousetrap Cars Torque-- rotational counterpart of force Longer leverdecreases pulling force, slower cars Wheel Size

The Physics of Mousetrap Cars Rotational Inertia Resistance an object has to changing its state of rotation Larger wheels vs smaller axle Displacing the weight towards the outsides BUT….requires more force

The Physics of Mousetrap Cars Friction Less surface area on wheels Sharpen the wheels! Axle vs. chassis Bearings? Spring Constant How could you modify the spring?

The Physics of Mousetrap Cars Kinetic vs Potential Energy Trap set = potential energy Moving vehicle = kinetic energy (and some potential still in the spring)

Longest Distances Ever! tm tm