Physics virtual labs

Simulated experiments, instruments and processes built on real scientific rules. Each lab has an aim, steps, tasks and exam questions, and links to the topics it supports.

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Type of lab

ExplorerLogic Gates and Truth TablesSwitch the inputs of NOT, AND, OR, NAND, NOR, XOR and XNOR gates, watch the output lamp, and build each gate's truth table.Open →ExperimentProjectile MotionLaunch a ball at any speed and angle, on Earth, the Moon, Mars or Jupiter, and measure its range, maximum height and time of flight.Open →ExperimentReading a Metre Rule: Parallax ErrorMove your eye left and right above a metre rule and watch the reading change. Find out why the eye must be straight above the mark and the object close to the scale.Open →Measuring instrumentScrew Gauge (Micrometer)Turn the thimble of a micrometer screw gauge onto a copper wire, a steel ball or a sheet of paper, finish with the ratchet, and read the main and circular scales.Open →ExperimentTiming a Pendulum: Reaction TimeTime a swinging pendulum yourself with a stopwatch. Compare timing 1 swing with timing 10 or 20 swings, and see how reaction time affects your answer.Open →Measuring instrumentVernier CallipersSlide the jaw of a vernier calliper onto a cylinder, a coin or the inside of a beaker, read the main and vernier scales, and correct for zero error.Open →

How the labs work

Each lab copies a real experiment, measuring instrument or natural process. The numbers come from the real scientific rules, and any simplification is stated under the lab.