How Does a Catapult Work?
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What Is a Catapult?
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A catapult is a machine that is similar to a giant slingshot. Objects, such as boulders, can be positioned on the catapult and hurled over distances. Catapults were used in ancient times to attack castles and fortresses by throwing large objects over moats and walls. Modern soldiers have also used catapults: During World War I they were used to propel grenades and gas bombs over long distances. In naval warfare a catapult can be used to launch aircraft from the deck of a ship. Another familiar weapon that is similar to the catapult is the bow. Like a catapult, a bow propels an object (the arrow).
How Does It Work?
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The catapult has a basket on the end of a movable arm strong enough to hold the weight of the object it is intended to hurl. Tension is applied to the arm, which is forced down and secured in place; springs and twisted ropes are two ways to provide the necessary tension. After the object is added to the basket, the bindings are cut or removed. The arm then succumbs to the tension and flips to the other side, like pulling a rubber band and then releasing. The object is propelled forward.
How Does a Naval Catapult Work?
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The catapult used to propel planes from a ship is a large steel frame with tracks. A car pulls the plane onto the tracks and then a force pushes the pair abruptly forward, which launches the plane into the air. The force can be generated by a spring or explosives.
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