A catapult is a mechanical siege engine or projectile launcher designed to propel an object using stored mechanical energy. Its operation fundamentally relies on the principles of physics, typically involving the conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy. Common structural configurations utilize principles such as torsion, tension, or gravitational potential to provide the necessary force. The projectile is loaded into a specialized cradle and released upon activation, allowing the stored energy to accelerate the launch mechanism and, consequently, the projectile. The design and efficiency of various catapult types are dictated by understanding mechanical stress, energy conservation, and the optimal angle of projection for maximum range and velocity.