Relativity Lab for a Newton's cradle
Simulate a Newton's cradle live in your browser. This runs the real Relativity Lab solver — adjust the inputs, watch it respond instantly, and export the result. No install, no account.
Controls
Presets
Near the speed of light, space and time warp. The Lorentz factor γ = 1/√(1−v²/c²) governs it all: moving clocks run slow by γ (time dilation), moving objects shrink along their motion by 1/γ (length contraction), and energy grows without bound. At everyday speeds γ ≈ 1, so we never notice.
Data Inspector
Governing equation
Runs locally in your browser — free forever. Scale to the cloud when reality gets heavy.
Controls
A moving source squeezes its wavefronts ahead and stretches them behind — higher pitch approaching, lower pitch receding. Push past the wave speed for a sonic boom.
Presets
Data Inspector
Governing equation
Runs locally in your browser — free forever. Scale to the cloud when reality gets heavy.
About this simulation
The full Relativity Lab tool models a Newton's cradle with the same numerics engineers and scientists use — running entirely client-side. Change any parameter and the result updates in real time, so you can build intuition, check a design, or teach the concept without spreadsheets or installs.
More you can do with Relativity Lab
Other ways to simulate a Newton's cradle
Frequently asked questions
- How do I simulate a Newton's cradle?
- Open this page and use the live Relativity Lab tool below — set your inputs and the simulation runs instantly in your browser using real numerics. No install, no account needed.
- Is it free?
- Yes. The simulation runs free in your browser. A one-time unlock or a Pro plan adds advanced parameters, saved presets, data import, and clean exports.
- Can I use my own numbers?
- Absolutely — every input is adjustable, and with data import you can drive a Newton's cradle from your own measurements.