How to Make a Simple Popsicle Stick Catapult (3 Catapult Designs) - Free Printable

Based on the analysis of the image, here is a step-by-step solution for building the popsicle stick catapult shown.

Solution: How to Build a Popsicle Stick Catapult

The image displays a simple and effective DIY catapult made from common craft supplies. The goal is to construct a lever mechanism that uses the tension of rubber bands to launch a small projectile.

Materials Needed:
- 7-8 Popsicle sticks (various colors are shown, but any will work)
- 3-4 Rubber bands
- 1 Plastic spoon
- 1 Small, lightweight projectile (like a crumpled piece of paper or a small foam ball)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Build the Base: Take 5 popsicle sticks and stack them together vertically. Secure this stack tightly at both ends with two rubber bands. This creates a sturdy base for your catapult.
2. Create the Pivot Point: Take one popsicle stick and lay it horizontally across the center of the stacked base. Wrap a rubber band around the intersection point to secure it in place. This horizontal stick will act as the fulcrum for your launching arm.
3. Attach the Launching Arm: Place another popsicle stick (the launching arm) on top of the horizontal stick you just added. It should be positioned so that one end rests on the base stack and the other end extends outwards. Use a rubber band to secure this launching arm to the horizontal pivot stick. This creates the lever that will do the launching.
4. Add the Spoon: Attach the plastic spoon to the end of the launching arm (the end that extends outwards). You can do this by wrapping a rubber band around the handle of the spoon and the popsicle stick, or by using glue if you have it. The bowl of the spoon will hold your projectile.
5. Load and Launch: Place your small projectile into the spoon. To launch, press down firmly on the end of the launching arm that is closest to the base. When you release, the tension in the rubber bands will cause the arm to snap upwards, flinging the projectile forward.

This design, as shown in the image from Mombrite.com, is a classic and fun STEM project that demonstrates the principles of levers and potential energy.