UIUC Physics
Lecture Demonstration
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Demo # 26
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Newton's Cradle
Description:
The lecturer usually begins by taking one ball, raising it away from the others, and then releasing it to collide with its neighbor. The momentum of the ball is transferred through the system, and the ball on the other end reacts accordingly. The lecturer can then repeat the process with two balls, or three, or four. This demonstrates conservation of momentum in a collision involving several bodies.
Physics Concept:
- Mechanics
- Linear Momentum
- Momentum Transfer
The demonstration takes about 1 minute to perform.