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

1. Hypothesis Testing

• Activity: Have students predict the outcomes when different numbers of balls are released in the Newton's Cradle AR model. Then, have them observe the model to compare their predictions with actual results. They can record their observations and discuss their findings in groups.

• Objective: Enhance understanding of energy transfer and motion by testing predictions against observations.

• Discussion: How did the actual results compare to the predictions? What does this reveal about the transfer of energy and momentum in the system?

2. Energy Tracking Exercise

• Activity: Ask students to trace the energy transfer they observe in the AR model by sketching or annotating each scenario (e.g., 1 ball, 2 balls, etc.). They should identify and note how potential energy converts into kinetic energy and how energy is conserved.

• Objective: Visualize and understand the principles of energy transformation and conservation in a dynamic system.

• Discussion: How does the transfer of energy change with different numbers of balls? What role does conservation of energy play in the observed motion?

3. Exploration of Variables

• Activity: Encourage students to hypothesize what might happen if the balls in the Newton's Cradle had different masses or if friction were present. Though these variables aren’t visible in the AR model, they can discuss hypothetical scenarios and predict outcomes based on physics principles.

• Objective: Develop critical thinking and apply theoretical knowledge to hypothetical changes in a controlled system.

• Discussion: How might differing masses or added friction affect the energy transfer and motion? What real-world examples illustrate these effects?

4. Design Challenge

• Activity: Challenge students to design their version of Newton's Cradle using different materials or sizes (on paper or digitally). They should hypothesize how these changes might impact the system's energy transfer, momentum, or overall efficiency.

• Objective: Foster creativity and deepen understanding of energy transfer and momentum through hands-on design.

• Discussion: What materials and sizes did you choose for your design, and why? How do you think your modifications would influence the cradle's performance in a real-world setting?