Conceptual Physics Speed Boat Project

Mouse Trap Powered Speed Boat Project

Description: Research, design and build a mouse trap powered speed boat that travels eight feet in the shortest possible time. The boat must be less than 24” long when starting the race. Faster boats will receive higher scores. Only one Victor brand mousetrap may be used per boat. The boat cannot use any other form of energy, including but not limited to: Rubber bands, rockets, rat traps, springs, chemical reactions, wind, solar, or biopower. You are allowed one partner but you may also work alone if you prefer. The water in the trough is guaranteed to be 2” deep only. Measure the track carefully so that your boat fits. The track is about 4.0” wide. Significant work is required outside of class as only ten class periods will be devoted to researching, building, and testing.

Point value: One full test grade = 70 pts

Due dates: first day: Side and overhead drawing and materials list : 5 pts
10/8 materials due
10/15 First prototype (must move in the water when released) = 5 pts
10/23 Must make it across the track in less than 10 seconds = 5 pts
11/1 Final project due. 50 pts See grade scale below


Final Speed Boat Grade Scale:

Has boat with propulsion system but no movement = 50% = 25 pts

Moves but greater than 10 seconds = 65% = 33 pts

9-9.99 seconds = 75% = 38 pts

7-8.99 seconds = 85% = 43 pts

5-6.99 seconds = 95% = 48 pts

less than 5 seconds = A+ = 100% = 50 pts


Materials: Students provide their own materials to include but not limited to: Foam, wood strips, plastics, glue, paint, string, and ten total class periods.

Tools: The following tools will be provided: hand saw to cut materials less than 1/8” thick and 2” long, hot glue gun and one stick of glue per class per period, pliers