A radial catapult is an ancient siege weapon that uses the energy stored in twisted cords to launch a projectile. It consists of a frame with a central axle, around which a bundle of cords is wrapped. One end of the cords is attached to the frame, while the other end is attached to a pouch containing the projectile. When the cords are twisted, they store elastic energy. When the cords are released, the energy is released, and the projectile is launched.
Radial catapults were first developed in ancient Greece, and they were used extensively in warfare throughout the ancient world. They were particularly effective against fortifications, as they could hurl large stones or other projectiles over long distances. Radial catapults remained in use until the development of gunpowder artillery in the Middle Ages.
