Dynamics · AS Level Physics 9702 Simulation

About this lab: Dynamics

Newton’s second law on a cart with force, mass and friction, an object falling with air or viscous resistance to terminal velocity, one-dimensional collisions with momentum and kinetic energy before and after, the force-time graph of a ball hitting a wall, and off-centre collisions on a 3D table with momentum conserved along both axes.

Newton’s laws on a cart, falling with resistance, momentum in one and two dimensions, and impulse

Dynamics is a free, browser-based simulation for Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics 9702 (topic 3 Dynamics). The course is assessed in Paper 1 (multiple choice), Paper 2 (AS structured), Paper 3 (advanced practical), Paper 4 (A Level structured) and Paper 5 (planning, analysis and evaluation). There are 5 tabs, each a self-contained experiment with its own controls and live readings, and nothing to install: it runs on a laptop, tablet or classroom projector.

Syllabus coverage

3.1 Momentum and Newton's laws of motion: Mass as resistance to change in motion; F = ma and the direction of acceleration; Linear momentum: p = mv; Force as rate of change of momentum: F = Δp ÷ Δt; Newton's three laws of motion (statement and application); Weight as the effect of a gravitational field: W = mg. Lessons: Newton's laws and momentum.
3.2 Non-uniform motion: Frictional, viscous, and drag forces (qualitative); Motion in a gravitational field with air resistance; Terminal velocity. Lessons: Motion with resistance.
3.3 Linear momentum and its conservation: The principle of conservation of momentum; Elastic and inelastic collisions in 1D and 2D; Elastic collisions: equal relative speeds of approach and separation. Lessons: Conservation of momentum.

Full syllabus map: AS Level Physics 9702 topic 3.

How to use this simulation

1. Newton’s laws (F = ma).
2. Motion with resistance.
3. Conservation of momentum.
4. Impulse and force-time graphs.
5. Collisions in two dimensions (3D).
The buttons at the end of the tab strip give the scene the whole window (Full screen, Hide controls) and, on a dark stage, a projector-friendly palette (Light scene). Many scenes also have drag handles: drag them to change the set-up directly.

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