Overview - Each student will enter a Rubber Band Powered Vehicle to compete in Physics Olympics. Each student is to complete his or her project according the design requirements and due dates. Students may bring their projects to class prior to competition day for approval and inspection by his or her teacher.

Purpose - To construct a vehicle that travels the greatest distance along a track of fixed width using the potential energy stored in a rubber band(s) as the only means of propulsion. (minimum distance requirement of 3 meters)

ATTENTION PARENTS AND STUDENTS

The rubber band vehicle project requires the fabrication of bridge components which may require the use of hand or power tools. Common tools used are scissors, knife, electric drill and handsaw or power saw. Follow all manufacture safety guidelines and directions including the use of safety goggles. Tools should be used under adult supervision. The rubber band vehicle project requires the fabrication of bridge components which may require the use of white glue. Follow all manufacture safety guidelines and directions.

Requirements
1. The car is to be constructed from:
- white 8.5" X 11" or 8.5" X 14" computer/zerox paper
- 3” X 5” or 4” X 6” index cards.
- NO OTHER PAPER PRODUCTS ARE ALLOWED.

2. ONLY Elmer's glue (generic white glue) or Elmer's glue stick (generic glue stick) are allowed. Paper mache' is NOT allowed.
NOTE - White glue will not discolor or change the opaque characteristic of the paper. Any white glue or glue stick that discolors the paper is NOT allowed.

3. Tape of ANY type is NOT allowed.

Allowed Glues

4. The ONLY means of propulsion is the potential energy stored in the rubber band(s) attached to the vehicle.

5. The rubber bands must be attached to and travel along with the vehicle.

6. The is no limit on the use or the number of rubbers bands.

7. The vehicle must be self-starting.

8. The is not limit on the size of the vehicle.

9. The mass of the vehicle, including the rubber bands, shall not exceed 500 grams.

10. The vehicle must remain in contact with the floor at all times.

Competition
1. The vehicle will be tested on a smooth flat surface 1.83 meters (6 feet) in width.
2. The distance traveled will be measured along the center-line of the track.
3. Any vehicle that exits the track before coming to a complete stop will have its exit point marked and the distance traveled measured from the starting line along the center-line to the adjacent exit point.
4. Each vehicle will complete two runs. The better of the two runs will be recorded.
5. The final grade will be determined by the greatest distance traveled. Refer to the vehicle rubric for details.

Grading

This activity may be reproduced in any form for use in a classroom, but under no
circumstances may any portion be reproduced for publication without written consent.