Newton's Cradle
Interactive simulation — adjust parameters and watch the visualization update in real time.
Live graphs
How it works
Newton’s cradle idealizes equal masses in a line with elastic impacts. In 1D, two equal spheres in a head-on elastic collision exchange velocities. Here a small chain propagates that impulse; light damping models air and hinge losses so motion eventually stops.
Key equations
Elastic, equal masses: v₁′ = v₂, v₂′ = v₁ (head-on)
p = Σ mᵢvᵢ conserved in elastic collisions