Masses and Springs: free physics simulation
Hang masses from springs. Hooke's law, oscillation period and energy.
▶ Open the simulationFree, no sign-up. Works on phones, tablets and laptops.
The science
A spring stretches in proportion to the force on it (Hooke’s law). A mass on a spring oscillates with a period set by the mass and the spring constant. Damping removes energy so the oscillation slowly dies away.
F = k x and T = 2π √(m / k)
Things to try
- Hang a known mass and measure the stretch to find k.
- Quadruple the mass and check the period doubles.
- Add damping and watch the oscillation die away.
Topics covered
hooke's law oscillation spring constant damping energy
How to use it
Open the simulation, then change the experiment live with the sliders, checkboxes and buttons in the side panel. Drag objects on screen where it makes sense, and use Pause, Step, Speed and Reset in the bottom bar to study every moment.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Masses and Springs simulation show?
A spring stretches in proportion to the force on it (Hooke’s law). A mass on a spring oscillates with a period set by the mass and the spring constant. Damping removes energy so the oscillation slowly dies away.
What is the key equation?
F = k x and T = 2π √(m / k)
Is the Masses and Springs simulation free?
Yes. It runs free in any web browser on phones, tablets and laptops, with no sign-up or download.
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