Static and kinetic friction

About this lab: Static and kinetic friction

A block pulled through a spring until it breaks free, with a force-time graph showing static friction matching the pull and then dropping to the smaller kinetic value, a magnified view of the two rough surfaces explaining why bumps that settle and bond at rest need more force than bumps skipping over each other, and a winch experiment plotting limiting and kinetic friction against the normal contact force for four pairs of materials.

Pull a block until it breaks free, see why the force needed to keep it sliding is smaller, and measure what friction depends on

Static and kinetic friction 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 3 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. 1. Pull until it slips.
2. 2. Why kinetic friction is smaller.
3. 3. What friction depends on.
4. 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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