FAQ

What is a catapult? 
A catapult is a system of moving parts that uses stored potential energy to launch a desired projectile.

When and why was it made?
Catapults, such as the Ballista, were used as early as 400 B.C. While the catapults we ALL think of when we hear the word "catapult", the Mangonel, were invented and used during the middle ages. These and other catapults were invented for the purpose of knocking down strong castle walls during battle. The invention of the catapult allowed for many successful raids or sieges of middle age castles.
How dangerous are they?
This depends heavily on the size of the catapult, how much potential energy is stored, and what type of projectile you are firing. In other words, you can make some catapults more dangerous than others. All things can be dangerous, just take the proper safety precautions before trying/testing out your catapult.
How are they made? 
Catapults were made like any other machine during the middle ages. They would use wood, ropes, and other various materials they had at the time, to hold everything together and had a set design. As technology has advanced, it has allowed us to make more advanced catapults and giving us more access to better/more efficient materials compared to when they were first engineered.
Are they expensive?
This depends on what size you're aiming to make the catapult and what materials you are going to use. In our case, we are most likely making our catapult out of wood, and making it fairly small compared to a large one. With this being said, the cost a catapult varies from cheap to expensive.
How far can you launch something from a catapult?
This, again, depends on the overall size of the catapult, and how much potential energy the catapult is able to hold. How far something can be launched is also determined by the velocity of the object as it leaves the lever arm. The faster the projectile, usually means the further the object will travel. It also depends on what type of catapult you're using.
What kinds of catapults are there?
There are three types of catapults: a Ballista, a Trebuchet, and, the very well-known type of catapult, a Mangonel. Each design uses a different firing mechanism and can be used for very different or similar tasks.