Scan the QR code to open the Newton’s Cradle AR in your own space!

Experience the principles of momentum and energy transfer with our interactive NGSS Newton's Cradle AR model. This virtual tool demonstrates the classic Newton's Cradle setup, allowing users to observe how kinetic energy is transferred through a series of suspended spheres. By selecting different numbers of balls—one, two, three, or four—students can explore how changes in input affect the resulting motion, showcasing fundamental physics concepts like conservation of momentum and energy. Ideal for classroom exploration, this AR model brings theoretical physics to life in an engaging and hands-on format.

Classroom questions

• Observation: When you observe the AR model, what happens when one ball is pulled back and released? How does the reaction change when two, three, or four balls are released instead?

• Prediction: If you pull two balls from one side, what do you predict will happen to the balls on the opposite side? Explain why.

• Cause and Effect: How does the number of balls you release affect the speed and energy transferred in the system?

• Energy Transfer: What type of energy is present in the system, and how is it transferred from one ball to the others?

• Conservation of Momentum: How does the model demonstrate the conservation of momentum? Can you see any instance where momentum is lost?

• Real-World Applications: Can you think of any real-world applications where the principles seen in Newton's Cradle are applied?

Classroom Activities

• Hypothesis Testing: Have students predict the outcomes when different numbers of balls are released, then observe the AR model to compare results with their predictions. They can record their observations and discuss the results as a group.

• Energy Tracking Exercise: Ask students to trace the energy transfer by sketching or annotating what they observe in each scenario (1 ball, 2 balls, etc.). They should note how potential energy changes into kinetic energy.

• Exploration of Variables: Encourage students to explore what would happen if the balls had different masses (hypothetical) or if friction were involved. Although not visible in the AR, they can discuss these scenarios and predict outcomes.

• Design Challenge: Challenge students to design their version of Newton's Cradle with different materials or sizes (on paper or digitally) and hypothesize how these changes might impact energy transfer or momentum.