Newtonian mechanics
Newton's three laws, energy, and collisions
Directly observe Newton's second law (ΣF = ma), the work-energy theorem, and conservation of momentum in collisions, by changing parameters yourself and watching how the system responds. Measure net force and acceleration, and compare energy and momentum readings with their conservation relations .
Equipment
- Virtual inclined plane with adjustable angle and friction coefficient
- Curved track (parabolic or with a hill), frictionless or with friction
- Two colliding spheres, coefficient of restitution e adjustable from 0 to 1
Procedure
Test Newton's first and second laws
In section 1, set the pulling force F = 0 and slowly increase the incline angle θ until the object starts to slide. Compare with the theoretical threshold tanθ = μ. Then turn on the pulling force F and watch the acceleration a = ΣF/m change instantly as you drag the slider. Compare the displayed values with .
Verify conservation of mechanical energy
In section 2, set friction μ = 0 and release the ball. Watch the stacked chart: the total height of U + K must always equal the initial energy. Then increase μ > 0 and watch the Q (heat) band appear, eating into U + K. Compare the displayed values with .
Compare elastic and inelastic collisions
In section 3, run the collision with e = 1, then with e = 0, keeping the same masses and initial velocities. Read the momentum/energy panel: momentum is always conserved, but kinetic energy is conserved only when e = 1. Compare the displayed values with .