A well-constructed launcher is a simple but effective tool used to project eggs and a variety of other objects. Throughout history, launchers and projectiles have been used as powerful weapons to attack enemies. Today, building catapults is a popular hobby both at home and in the classroom. Designing and building launchers is a popular science project that enables students to demonstrate their understanding of the laws of physics, gravity and projection.
- Block of wood approximately 6 inches long, 3 inches wide and 1 inch deep
- Wood glue
- Large clothespin
- Wood cube about 1-inch by 1-inch
- Popsicle stick
- Plastic container
Any light plastic container can be used as long as it securely holds the egg in place before you launch it. Launchers vary in size and construction materials. Experiment with these variables to build launchers capable of projecting objects over longer distances.
Lay the 6-inch block on a flat surface.
Glue the clothespin lengthwise in the center of the wood block.
Allow time for the glue to completely dry. Glue the 1-inch cube to the tip of the open end of the clothespin. Be sure to glue only half of the cube onto the end of the clothespin.
Allow time for the glue to dry. Glue the flat side of the Popsicle stick to the top surface of the cube, leaving about 2/3 of the stick free. Be sure the stick is securely attached to the wood cube.
Glue the small container to the end of the Popsicle stick, leaving enough room when you push down to launch the egg.
Things You'll Need
Tips
References
Tips
- Any light plastic container can be used as long as it securely holds the egg in place before you launch it.
- Launchers vary in size and construction materials. Experiment with these variables to build launchers capable of projecting objects over longer distances.
About the Author
Based in New York City, Sherry Mao has been a professional writer since 2010. She will be bringing expertise in a wide range of areas from do-it-yourself projects, to healthy living, to traveling. After teaching for the past several years, she is currently attending New York University for her Master of Arts in English literature.
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