How can I maximise the exit velocity of an object catapulted up?

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In summary, to maximize the exit velocity of an object catapulted upward, one should focus on optimizing the launch angle, ensuring efficient energy transfer from the catapult mechanism, reducing air resistance through streamlined design, and using materials that provide maximum elasticity and strength. Additionally, increasing the tension or force applied during the launch can enhance the overall velocity.
  • #1
barondress
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Homework Statement
Place an object on a large air cushion and drop several other
objects in such a way that the first object is catapulted away.
Investigate how the exit velocity depends on relevant
parameters.

I believe this is an old question from IYPT but my Physics Teacher has suggested it to the class as a potential summer experiment to look into.

Any ideas into what the most important parameters to investigate are as well as why they are significant and what theory underlies it?

So far, I have come up with elasticity of the cushion, friction of the cushion, angle of drop, mass of object to be catapulted, mass of object to be dropped and the height that the object is dropped from.

Thank you in advance.
Relevant Equations
P = F/A
F = DELTA p / t
n/a
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF. :smile:

There are some pretty amazing (and scary) YouTube videos of people doing this with large cushions. Have you watched any of them yet? Watching them may provide some insights into how to get the best performance from the cushion...
 
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  • #3
barondress said:
So far, I have come up with elasticity of the cushion,
What exactly do you mean by that? Elasticity of the material or of the cushion as a body?
Remember that you are interested in the transference of energy to another object on the cushion, not the bounce of the dropped object. E.g. dropping a mass on the raised end of a seesaw will transfer energy, but I would not describe a seesaw as elastic.
barondress said:
friction of the cushion,
Why?
barondress said:
angle of drop,
Surely a drop is vertical … no point in making it otherwise.
barondress said:
mass of object to be catapulted, mass of object to be dropped and the height that the object is dropped from.
ok, but what about degree of inflation of the cushion, in relation to its maximum perhaps?

It will help if you have some proposed model of how the process works.
 
  • #4
Creating a quantitative model seems very difficult to do based on theory solely. Do you have any ideas on where I could start? I thought about volume of air in the cushion from acting like a rigid body with maximum volume of air which would definitely influence the exit velocity. I'm just not entirely sure how I could incorporate this into some sort of actual equation.
 
  • #5
barondress said:
Creating a quantitative model seems very difficult to do based on theory solely. Do you have any ideas on where I could start? I thought about volume of air in the cushion from acting like a rigid body with maximum volume of air which would definitely influence the exit velocity. I'm just not entirely sure how I could incorporate this into some sort of actual equation.
Maybe start by considering what you can vary. Degree of inflation, relative masses, drop height… Anything else?
 

FAQ: How can I maximise the exit velocity of an object catapulted up?

1. What factors influence the exit velocity of a catapulted object?

The exit velocity of a catapulted object is influenced by several factors, including the initial tension in the launching mechanism, the mass of the object, the angle of launch, and the efficiency of energy transfer from the catapult to the object. Additionally, aerodynamic drag and gravitational forces also play a role in determining the object's velocity as it ascends.

2. How does the angle of launch affect exit velocity?

The angle of launch significantly affects the exit velocity and trajectory of the object. For maximum range, the optimal angle is typically around 45 degrees. However, for maximizing vertical exit velocity specifically, a steeper angle (between 75 to 90 degrees) can be more effective, as it allows for greater vertical acceleration and less time spent overcoming horizontal drag.

3. What materials should be used to construct an effective catapult?

The materials used to construct a catapult can greatly impact its performance. Lightweight yet strong materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, or high-strength plastics can enhance the efficiency of energy transfer. Additionally, using elastic materials with high tensile strength for the launching mechanism can allow for greater potential energy storage, resulting in higher exit velocities.

4. How can I optimize the tension in the launching mechanism?

To optimize the tension in the launching mechanism, ensure that the elastic components (such as rubber bands or springs) are stretched to their optimal length without exceeding their limits, which could cause failure. Experimenting with different configurations and materials can help find the right balance of tension that maximizes energy storage while maintaining durability and safety.

5. Are there any techniques to reduce air resistance during launch?

Yes, reducing air resistance can significantly improve exit velocity. Streamlining the shape of the object, using aerodynamic designs, and minimizing surface area can help reduce drag. Additionally, launching the object in a vacuum or a controlled environment with lower air density can also aid in maximizing exit velocity, although this may not be practical in most scenarios.

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