PHET Interactive Simulations: Masses and Spring
Topics
Periodic Motion
Hooke's Law
Conservation of Energy
Newton's Laws
Measurement
Vectors
Description
Hang masses from springs and adjust the spring constant and damping. Transport the lab to different planets, or slow down time. Observe the forces and energy in the system in real-time, and measure the period using the stopwatch.
Sample Learning Goals
Determine the factors which affect the period of oscillation
Find the value of g on Planet X
Design an experiment to determine the mass of an unknown object
Describe the relationship between the velocity and acceleration vectors, and their relationship to motion, at various points in the oscillation
Explain how the free-body diagram of the mass changes throughout its oscillation
Explain the Conservation of Mechanical Energy using kinetic, elastic potential, gravitational potential, and thermal energy