How to Build a Mousetrap Race Car

Building a mousetrap car, or a car powered by the snapping of a mousetrap, can be a great way to learn about inertia, elasticity and propulsion, according to Wired Magazine. Many people like to design their own mousetrap cars, but first, attempt the following car to understand the basic concepts involved.

Things You'll Need

• Mousetrap
• 2 metal rods, 15 mm diameter
• 3 old or blank CDs
• Hot glue gun
• Hot glue
• 3 washers
• String
• Pliers
• 4 rubber bands

Instructions

1. Use the hot glue gun to glue the four washers onto the mousetrap so that the holes are below the part of the trap with the metal mechanism. Place the metal rods into the section of the mousetrap opposite the square "jaws" or snapping mechanism.

2. Use pliers to remove the wire catch on the mousetrap. Discard the wire catch.

3. Stick the four CDs onto the axles. Since the axles are 15 mm in diameter, the CDs will fit snugly onto the axles.

4. Use the hot glue gun to glue the piece of string (20 inches long) to the rear axle. Tie the other end to the jaws of the mousetrap.

5. Stretch the rubber bands around the wheels of the car. These will provide traction for the wheels.

6. Pull the mousetrap car back. The string should loop around the rear axle and the mousetrap mechanism should pull back.

7. Release the mousetrap car. The car will move forward. Adjust the wheels to ensure that the car moves in a straight path.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a larger mousetrap to make a faster mousetrap car.

• Mouse traps can be dangerous. Avoid catching your hands in a mouse trap, as this may cause permanent injury.

References

• Wired: Building a Mouse Trap Car

Resources

• PBS: Build a Better Mousetrap Car