Resources for Medieval Era Enthusiasts

1 Dec

The Physics of a Trebuchet

Posted on 2009 under Homeschooling | 1 Comment

Continuing with the homeschool theme . . . here is a easy example of how studies of the Medieval era can be used to teach contemporary subjects: the physics of the trebuchet. On the Library ThinkQuest site is a very nicely written piece about the physics involved in the operation of a trebuchet. Included are mathematical formulae for velocity, acceleration of gravity, and velocity over time just to name a few. Trebuchet1 The study of a trebuchet also involves applications in engineering and design. The website www.slinging.org shows a basic diagram of a trebuchet. Building one from scratch might be a little beyond the skills of the average homeschool parent; however, there are numerous kits available. More indepth plans are also available, but so far I haven’t found any free plans which are of sufficient detail. If you know of a source, please let me know.

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1 Comment so far »

  1. by Scott, on December 2 2009 @ 11:39 am

     

    I found an interesting blog which features students using trebuchets to launch pumpkins – part of physics and history projects from the junior high level through college.
    http://physicsandphysicists.blogspot.com/2009/10/pumpkin-physics.html

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About The Author

Scott Berry is a former high school history teacher. He is the founder and president of Medieval Living, Inc., a 501(c)(3) public charity which supports homeschooling throughout New Mexico. He is also an active member of the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), where he participates in light weapons (rapier) and archery. He was a historian for the United States Air Force from 1981 to 1993.