Why is a trebuchet better than a catapult?

Answer 1

The trebuchet is larger (thus making everything else better, like a child throwing smaller rocks at a shorter distance than an adult can).

The system is also designed better, the catapult uses stored elasticity to propel the rock, whereas the trebuchet uses a heavily weighted beam which is lifted and stores gravitational energy, while the long sling holds the rock.

The leverage of the beam which is close to the pivot point against the long sling which will thus move faster propels its ammunition at an even faster speed than a catapult ever did.

Hopefully this answers the question.

Answer 2

A trebuchet is a piece of military equipment that might more generally be called a catapult. Trebuchets in particular are typically powered by a counterweight and the force of gravity, as apposed to torsion catapults like the balista, which used mechanical energy stored in twisted bundles or ropes or cords.

The counterweight rotates a long arm, at the end of which is a large sling that acts as a secondary fulcrum. Modern reproductions of trebuchets using medieval plans and construction techniques have demonstrated that they were extremely effective weapons of war, being able to throw heavy projectiles hundreds of meters.

As for what is "good" about a trebuchet, if you happen to have a military foe some several hundred meters away, and a heavy projectile, well, problem solved.

Answer 3

Trebuchet: the only one that works as a lever. Has a long arm that is pivoted off-center. Force is applied to the short side, usually by a counterweight. A sling is attached to he other end. Operated by raising the short end and loading the sling. When the arm is released it swings around, pulls the sling through and the missile is released.

Ballista: like a big crossbow. Has two arms that take the place of the bowstave. Normally powered by two rope bundles similar to the one on an onager, Does not use a sling. Instead is has a string somewhat like a bow.

Answer 4

a ballista fires projectiles (arrows) whereas a catapult fires rocks and heavy objects (boiling oil)

Answer 5

because it is