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How to Make a Catapult With Paper Clips

The catapult was first designed by the ancient Greeks to throw projectiles a great distance since they didn't have explosives. During medieval times, catapults were used to hurl incendiary devices and dead animals over the walls of besieged cities in a type of biological warfare. Now you, too, can use a catapult during a slow day at work to smash through your boredom and assault your co-workers.

Things You'll Need

Heavy tape dispenser (empty)
Empty tape wheel
Paper clip
Masking tape
Plastic spoon
Foam
Rubber band
Projectile material

Instructions

- 1
  Insert the rubber band into a paper clip so that the clip is holding the band secure in the wire loop.
- 2
  Using masking tape, tape the clip to the end of the tape dispenser so that it and the rubber band stick up a third of an inch.
- 3
  Attach the handle end of a plastic spoon to the tape dispenser so that it pivots in the wheel well using the tape wheel as an axle.
- 4
  Loop the rubber band around the spoon and secure with tape.
- 5
  Place foam in the bottom of the tape well to stop the spoon from pivoting at the desired angle to achieve maximum launch trajectory.

Insects & Science