Newton's Cradle Simulation
Momentum transfer through a chain of nearly elastic collisions
Physics-based model with pendulum motion and pairwise collision impulses. Small drift remains from numerical integration.
What Is Newton's Cradle?
Newton's Cradle refers to momentum transfer through a chain of nearly elastic collisions in classical mechanics. This page visualizes the phenomenon with interactive controls so you can change parameters and observe how the model responds.
What To Observe
- Watch how the visual pattern or system response changes as you adjust the controls for Newton's Cradle.
- Relate each visual change to the core phenomenon shown here: momentum transfer through a chain of nearly elastic collisions.
- Use repeated runs with one parameter changed at a time to build intuition.
Related Simulations
Newton's Laws of Motion Force, mass, friction, and acceleration in cart dynamics Projectile Motion Launch projectiles with adjustable angle & velocity Inclined Plane Force decomposition and friction on a ramp Friction (Static vs Kinetic) Threshold behavior and motion under static/kinetic friction Circular Motion Velocity and centripetal acceleration in uniform circular motion Centripetal Force Radial acceleration and vector relationships in circular motion Coriolis Force Trajectory deflection in a rotating reference frame Center of Mass Weighted average position of a multi-mass system Simple Pendulum Oscillation under gravity with real-time graph Double Pendulum Chaotic motion from a simple system Gyroscope / Precession Precession of a spinning top under gravity Coupled Oscillators Energy transfer and normal-mode behavior in linked oscillators Damped Oscillations Decay of oscillation amplitude with damping strength Forced Oscillations Driven response, resonance, and phase lag Spring-Mass Oscillator Hooke's law with damping Conservation of Momentum Collision outcomes under momentum conservation and restitution Atwood Machine Two masses on a pulley illustrating net-force acceleration Inelastic Collision (1D) Momentum conserved while kinetic energy decreases Elastic Collisions Momentum & energy conservation in 2D Lever & Pulley Mechanical advantage from lever arms and pulley geometry
Try These Experiments
- Start with default settings, then change one slider at a time.
- Record what increases, decreases, or becomes unstable as parameters vary.
- Use screenshots or notes to compare patterns between runs.
Real-World Applications
- Classical Mechanics lessons and classroom demonstrations
- Self-study and concept reinforcement
- Interactive support for STEM presentations