Building a mousetrap car is a classic project that blends creativity with basic physics. One of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right wheels. While many factors contribute to a winning design, the size of your drive wheels plays a starring role. If you’re aiming for distance, you’ve likely heard that bigger is better, but it’s not quite that simple. So, what are the best big wheels for a mousetrap car that will give you the greatest chance of success?
What are the best big wheels for a mousetrap car?
The ideal large wheels are CDs or DVDs. Their large diameter is their greatest asset. A bigger wheel travels a longer distance with each rotation compared to a smaller one. This means the mousetrap’s spring, which has a limited amount of energy, doesn’t have to unwind as many times to cover the same ground, conserving power for a longer run. CDs are also incredibly lightweight, which reduces the overall mass the trap’s spring has to move, and they are readily available and easy to mount onto an axle.
Other excellent wheel options to consider
While CDs are a top contender, they aren’t your only choice. Large, foam-based toy car wheels can be a fantastic alternative. Look for wheels from toys that are designed to be pulled back and let go. These wheels are often very light and have excellent traction. Another great option is large plastic lids from containers like coffee cans or oatmeal tubs. Like CDs, they offer a large diameter and are typically very lightweight, making them efficient for distance.
Balancing size with other important factors
Simply picking the biggest wheel you can find isn’t a guaranteed win. You must also consider weight and traction. A massive, heavy wheel will require more of the mousetrap’s energy just to start moving. This is why lightweight materials are key. Traction is also crucial; a slick wheel will simply spin in place. You can add traction to a CD by wrapping a thin band of rubber from a balloon or a small rubber band around its edge. For foam or plastic wheels, a light sanding can sometimes improve grip.
Getting your big wheels to work effectively
The secret to making big wheels work is reducing friction at the axle. A smooth, free-spinning axle is non-negotiable. Use eye screws or drilled holes that are slightly larger than your axle rod to prevent binding. Lubricating the axle with a tiny amount of graphite or petroleum jelly can also make a dramatic difference in how freely your wheels turn, allowing the mousetrap’s energy to be used for movement, not overcoming friction.
Ultimately, the best big wheels for your car strike a perfect balance: they are large in diameter, exceptionally lightweight, and have just enough traction to grip the floor. By focusing on CDs, foam toy wheels, or lightweight lids and paying close attention to reducing axle friction, you’ll be well on your way to building a mousetrap car that goes the distance.
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