Marshmallow Launcher Project

The Goal: Build a device that can launch a standard-size campfire marshmallow (not a mini-marshmallow). The Challenge: The marshmallow must land between 100cm-150 cm from the release point three times in a row.

The Catch: Your launcher can only be made with the following: paper, cardboard, rubber bands, white or wood glue, hot glue, scotch tape (no duct tape, masking tape, packing tape). You can earn extra points if your device is adjustable (this doesn’t just include pulling the rubber band back further) and allows the marshmallow to be launched to different specific distances. Extra points will be awarded by teacher’s discretion based on the level of ingenuity of your device.

The Details: What do I need to turn in? Work alone or in a group of 2 (no more than 2 people in a group!!!) You may only work with students in your teacher’s class. The project must be completed by you without outside help from parents or others outside the class. Due 10/27. Your device must work via stored energy (you may not put human energy into the device to launch the marshmallow) What do I need to turn in? On the due date, you must have: your device, your data and calculations, and a discussion of errors (typed, proper grammar)

The Calculations: You must test your device for a minimum of three trials at home before the due date. Measure the distance the marshmallow travels from the release point. Measure the time of flight of the marshmallow. Organize your data in a table. Calculate averages for your trials. Include the averages in your data table. Use the data you have collected (in appropriate units) to calculate the initial velocity of the marshmallow and the launch angle (do not use a protractor for the angle). Show all your work in a neat and organized fashion. Include equations, units, box your answers. Make sure that you are using proper significant figures according to your equipment.

Discussion of Errors: In addition to your data and calculations, you must turn in a discussion of the possible sources of errors present in your data collection and calculations. This must be typed.

Function Structure functions extraordinarily well, marshmallow can hit target range 3 times.   10 pts Structure functions well, marshmallow can hit target range 2 times. 8 pts Structure functions pretty well, marshmallow can hit target range 1 time. 6 pts Flaws in function, marshmallow cannot hit target range. 2 pts Fatal flaws in function, marshmallow fails to launch. 0 pts

Construction Materials Materials used fell within guidelines, exceptional creativity displayed. 10 pts Materials used fell within guidelines, some creativity displayed.   8 pts Materials used fell within guidelines. 6 pts Materials used outside of guidelines given. 0-5 pts

Calculations Calculations show firm understanding of projectile motion. Equations, units, sig figs are correct.   10 pts Calculations show firm understanding of projectile motion. 8 pts Calculations provided contain some mistakes. 6 pts Calculations provided contain multiple mistakes. 2 pts No calculations included. 0 pts

Discussion of Errors Discussion of Errors show firm understanding of sources of error in the project. Proper grammar is used. Discussion is typed.   10 pts Discussion of Errors shows understanding of some of the sources of error. Proper grammar is used. Discussion is typed. 8 pts Discussion of Errors show understanding of some of the sources of error. Grammar contains some mistakes. Discussion is typed. 6 pts Discussion of errors shows little understanding of sources of error. 2 pts Not included. 0 pts