Newton's Balls

Newton’s Cradle, commonly referred to as Newton’s momentum balls, is a classic desk ornament and physics demonstration device. It consists of a series of identical metal spheres, typically suspended in a straight line by thin wires or strings from a sturdy frame. The balls are perfectly aligned and rest so that they barely touch one another when stationary.

When one or more balls on one end are lifted and released, they collide with the stationary balls in the center, transferring momentum through the line and causing an equal number of balls on the opposite end to swing outward. This fascinating and rhythmic motion continues until friction and air resistance gradually bring the balls to rest.