Newton's Cradle Flashcard

Front

What happens to the spheres in the middle of a Newton's Cradle during operation?

Back

They remain mostly stationary while transferring energy.

Front

What is demonstrated by the motion of the spheres in Newton's Cradle?

Back

That energy can only be transferred, not created or destroyed.

Front

What is a Newton's Cradle commonly made of?

Back

Spheres hanging from a frame.

Front

Energy cannot be created or destroyed. True or False?

Back

True.

Front

What do we know about energy during the collision in Newton's Cradle?

Back

Energy is only transferred from one molecule to the other.

Front

What principle explains why the spheres in a Newton's Cradle swing back and forth?

Back

The principle of conservation of momentum.

Front

What type of energy is primarily involved in the operation of a Newton's Cradle?

Back

Kinetic energy.

Front

What happens to the energy when one sphere is lifted and released in a Newton's Cradle?

Back

The energy is transferred to the other spheres, causing them to swing.

Front

What is the role of the frame in a Newton's Cradle?

Back

The frame holds the spheres in place and allows them to swing freely.

Front

What is the effect of friction on the motion of the spheres in a Newton's Cradle?

Back

Friction slows down the motion and energy transfer over time.