University of Wisconsin–Madison

Newton’s Cradle

Newton’s Cradle – Five identical balls

TO DOTO SEE
Lift one ball to a height “H” on the left side then release it gentlyThe far right ball moves away until it gets the height “H” while the others four balls remaining static
  
2) Lift two balls to a height “H” on the left side then release them gently
The two far right balls move away until it gets the height “H” while the others three balls remaining static.
  
3) Lift three balls to a height “H” on the left side then release them gently
The three far right balls move away until it gets the height “H” while the others two balls remaining static.
  
4) Do the same for four balls…
Four balls get the height “H” and just one remaining static
  

 

 

Physics Lecture Demonstration Database