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NC Science Olympiad

Air Trajectory

Division: B/C

NGSS Standards: MS-PS3-2; MS-PS3.A; MS-PS3.C

Event Rules: See the National Rules Manual

National Event Page: Air Trajectory B/C

Description:

Prior to the competition, teams will design, construct, and calibrate a single device capable of launching projectiles onto a target.

Materials:

Each team must impound only one launch device, projectiles, and calibration data (if prepared). Items must be moveable by the participants without outside assistance. The device must be impounded with the mass(es) detached, which altogether must not exceed the limits in 3.b. The calibration data are the only papers or notes that the competitors may bring into the competition area and must be impounded.

-Each team may bring tools, supplies, writing utensils, and two stand-alone calculators (Class III) for use (these items need not be impounded).

-Participants must wear eye protection during device setup and operation. Teams without proper eye protection must be immediately informed and given a chance to obtain eye protection if time allows.

-Participants must be able to answer questions regarding the design, construction, and operation of the device per the Building Policy.

Scoring:

High Score wins.

FAQs

10/28/24: Can a student alter the ball they choose?

As of currently, that would be fine. There is no rule about the projectile being “unmodified”. So as long as the projectile 1. Is the correct size (1-3 in) 2. stays spherical. 3. Doesn’t damage or alter the floor … you should be fine to modify it. However do keep an eye on the national event clarifications to see if that changes (https://www.soinc.org/faq/air-trajectory-div-c).

Event Resources