CO2 dragster

CO2 dragsters are cars used by miniature racing cars which are propelled by a carbon dioxide cartridge, pierced to start the release of the gas, and which race on a typically 60 feet (18 metres) track. They are frequently used to demonstrate mechanical principles such as mass, force, acceleration, or aerodynamics. Two hooks (eyelets or screw eyes) linked to a string (usually monofilament fishing line) on the bottom of the car prevent the vehicle from losing control during launch. In a race, a laser scanner records the speed of the car at the end of its run. Often, the dragster is carved out of balsa wood because of its light weight and cheapness.[1][2]

HI Rear view of a "rail"-style dragster, with external wheels. The hollow container for the carbon dioxide cartridge can be seen towards the rear of the car.

CO2 cars are a part of engineering curricula in diverse parts of the world such as Australia, New Zealand[1] and the United States.[2] In the United States, classroom projects and competitions can operate under the aegis of the Technology Student Association at middle school and high school levels.[3][4] Competitions are sometimes featured in local newspapers.[5] Students learn about the forces of gravity, drag, wind resistance, and the motion of air as a fluid. The projects mainly test the aerodynamic, mass and friction properties of a car. These forces can influence performance in a race, so it is vital to take them into account when building.

An unfinished "shell" dragster, with wheels enclosed within its body

See also

References
  1. Reichert, Michael; Hawley, Richard (2010). Reaching Boys, Teaching Boys: Strategies that Work -- and Why. Wiley & Sons. p. 6. ISBN 978-0-470-53278-2. Retrieved 2010-08-19.
  2. "What is C02 Racing?". Science of Speed. Retrieved 2010-08-19.
  3. "Technology Student Association". DeWitt Middle School, Ithaca, NY. Retrieved 2010-08-19.
  4. "High School Competitions". Reston, VA: Technology Student Association.
  5. "Students design speedy dragsters". TriCities.com. Thomson Reuters. December 18, 2008. Archived from the original on July 16, 2011. Retrieved August 20, 2010.
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