JOURNAL ARTICLE

HOW CATAPULTS WORKED.

  • Published In: How It Works, 2025, n. 207. P. 44 1 of 3

  • Database: Science Reference Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: DUTFIELD, SCOTT 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the historical significance and mechanics of catapults and trebuchets as weapons of ancient and medieval warfare. Catapults, first developed in the late-4th century BCE, were crucial in sieges, utilizing torsion springs to launch projectiles. The Romans improved upon this design with the onager, while the trebuchet, which emerged in China, employed a counterweight mechanism for greater efficiency. Despite their historical roots, these devices have seen modern applications, such as the British Army's use of the Leach catapult in World War I and recent reports of the Israel Defence Force using trebuchets in conflicts. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:How It Works. 2025/10, Issue 207, p44
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Architecture
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:2041-7322
  • Accession Number:187774459
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