irunphysics

Yesterday was the first day of the car challenge.  I didn't work on a car. 😞 So here is my first log...😀 I am thinking of using the gravitational potential energy of a raised mass to power my car.  The mass will be tied to the cart so that as the mass falls the cart will go.  It'll look something like this.... There are some things that I am concerned with right away.  😏 -How will I get the top pulley supported? -First how can I get the string to detatch from the car? -Will the mass smash the car? -Will the car run into the lower pulley? -How will I get the car to stop at 20 feet?  Can this be accomplished by varying the mass or should I put a lock on the cart so the wheels lock up after traveling the distance. I collected some parts and think I have a good start.  The posts should be able to support the hanging mass.  I'll have to start throwing it together and find out what other problems I run into (I know there will be some...