VisVirtual
Description
The Newton's Cradle Simulator is an interactive physics model for exploring momentum and energy transfer through a row of steel balls. You can change the release angle, number of released balls, gravity, and energy loss, then observe how those variables affect the motion of the cradle. The balls can also be dragged directly to create your own starting position before release.
How To Use
Adjust the simulation variables, then press Release to start the cradle. You can also click or drag one of the steel balls directly and release it to begin the motion.
| Section | Control | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Release Angle | Changes the starting angle of the released balls from 10° to 65°. |
| Setup | Released Balls | Selects how many balls are released at the start, from 1 to 5. |
| Physics | Gravity | Changes the gravity value used by the simulation from 4.0 to 16.0. |
| Physics | Energy Loss | Adjusts the amount of damping or energy lost during the motion. |
| Simulation | Release | Starts the cradle using the current release angle and released-ball settings. |
| Simulation | Reset | Returns the cradle to its starting position. |
| Simulation | Pause / Play | Pauses the current motion or resumes it. |
| Simulation | Slow Motion | Runs the cradle at reduced speed. Press again to return to normal speed. |
| Direct Control | Drag a Ball | Click or touch a steel ball, drag it sideways to change its angle, then release it to start the motion. |
01Choose the release angle, number of released balls, gravity, and energy-loss settings.
02Press Release, or drag one of the balls directly and let go.
03Use Pause, Slow Motion, or Reset while comparing how the cradle transfers motion between the balls.