How to Create a Marshmallow Launcher

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A catapult is an old medieval siege engine consisting of a large arm that used tension to “catapult” large objects far. Designing and constructing your catapult is easier than you may think. A well-made model representing a full catapult may be made using only a few pieces of material. This article will show you how to create one!

Part 1
Part 1 of 4:

Planning

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    Visualize how you want your catapult to look and then make a detailed blueprint.
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    Some popsicle sticks for the structure, a plastic spoon to act as the launcher and rubber bands to keep everything together.
    • Cut or shape the popsicle sticks to the desired length.
    • Lay them out to match the blueprint.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 4:

Building

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    Attach the sticks with rubber bands so as to make a square shape.
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    Assemble two pairs of sticks joined to make a 'V' shape. Join these to the base afterward.
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    Pick a "front side" and add a stick horizontally a few centimeters above the base. Add one to the top as well, binding it diagonally to the V shapes as shown in the picture. Place the spoon behind the top stick, binding it to the bottom stick.
    • Make sure it can pivot freely.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 4:

Testing and Tweaking

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    Try launching a marshmallow or a small object by placing it on the spoon, turning it backward and releasing.
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    Weak tension while launching can be common. You can tweak the tension by adding or getting rid of rubber bands in the relevant part. Consider adjusting the launch angle if required.
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Part 4
Part 4 of 4:

Finalizing

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  1. 1
    Finalize and reinforce your build. You can even paint the sticks to add a personal touch!
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      Preparing

      • Notebook
      • Pencil

      Building

      • Popsicle sticks (about 10)
      • Rubber bands
      • Plastic spoon

      Finalizing

      • Paint (optional)

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      References

      1. https://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/nwo/documents/STEMinPark/2017activity_cards/Popsicle-Stick-Catapult.pdf
      2. https://www.mottchildren.org/posts/camp-little-victors/marshmallow-catapult

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