Final answer:
The mangonel catapult applies Newton's laws of motion through the equal and opposite reactions demonstrated when the projectile is launched, the acceleration according to the force applied and the mass of the projectile, and its continued motion until external forces act upon it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mangonel catapult is a device that launches projectiles using a mechanism of stored energy. Understanding how it works involves Newton's laws of motion. Specifically, Newton's third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, is a key principle in its operation. When the catapult's arm is released, the tension exerts a force on the projectile, propelling it forward. At the same time, there is an opposite force exerted on the arm of the catapult. This illustrates how the device obeys Newton's third law. Furthermore, the mangonel also demonstrates Newton's second law, which says that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. When the catapult's arm is released, the force exerted propels the projectile forward, which then accelerates in accordance with the force applied. Lastly, Newton's first law, also known as the law of inertia, explains why the projectile will continue in motion until acted upon by another force, such as gravity or air resistance.