1M40.37 - Slingshots

Code Number:
1M40.37
Demo Title:
Slingshots
Condition:
Excellent
Principle:
Stored Energy
Area of Study:
Mechanics
Equipment:
Slingshot, ping pong balls.
Procedure:

Practice will be needed here.  Position the sling shot onto your arm.  Place the ping pong balls into the pouch, pull back, and shoot across the lecture room.

References:
  • Benjamin D. Bousquet, Charles C. Figura, "Modeling the Water Balloon Slingshot", TPT, Vol. 51, #1, Jan. 2013, p. 40.
  • "Family Project: Build Your Own Slingshot", Popular Mechanics, May 2019, p. 82.
  • William Gurstelle, "A Snowball Slingshot On a Sled", Popular Science, Jan. 2015, p. 64.
  • Bobby Mercer, "Balloon Shooter", Junk Drawer Physics, p. 35.
  • 50 Fun Experiments for the Mad Scientist in You, "Human Slingshot",  National Geographic Kids, p. 137.
  • 50 Fun Experiments for the Mad Scientist in You, "Bonus: Seed Bomb Slingshot", National Geographic Kids, p. 14.
  • Slingking™ Waterballoon Slingshot, Instruction Manual.

Disclaimer: These demonstrations are provided only for illustrative use by persons affiliated with The University of Iowa and only under the direction of a trained instructor or physicist.  The University of Iowa is not responsible for demonstrations performed by those using their own equipment or who choose to use this reference material for their own purpose.  The demonstrations included here are within the public domain and can be found in materials contained in libraries, bookstores, and through electronic sources.  Performing all or any portion of any of these demonstrations, with or without revisions not depicted here entails inherent risks.  These risks include, without limitation, bodily injury (and possibly death), including risks to health that may be temporary or permanent and that may exacerbate a pre-existing medical condition; and property loss or damage.  Anyone performing any part of these demonstrations, even with revisions, knowingly and voluntarily assumes all risks associated with them.