Trainee walkthrough
Run your first virtual practical
Follow the steps with a beam on two scales. A scale shows how much of the load it supports.
Browse simulationsChoose a practical
Find the practical number your tutor gives you. For this example, find P2 · Beam reactions. The lab opens at Predict.
Make a prediction
A sandbag sits closer to the left scale. Which scale do you think will show the larger reading?
In the beam lab, choose an answer, enter your estimate, then select Lock in my prediction.
Change one thing and record
Move the sandbag along the beam. Watch both scale readings. The scale closer to the bag shows the larger reading.
In the lab, select Record reading. Move the bag and repeat until you have three readings. Keep the units with each number. Use Export to save a CSV file you can open in a spreadsheet, or Print for a paper copy.
Drag with one finger or your mouse. Use Full view to enlarge the model.
Explain what you found
Use your readings to explain how moving the bag changes the load on each scale. Try the calculation first.
Use the seven steps: formula, given values, units, put the values into the formula, calculate, answer with a unit, and check. Then compare your work with the worked example and answer Check yourself.
Try the challenge
Calculate first, then test your answer in the simulation. If you need a hint, use it to learn and try another round.
Open P2 · Beam reactionsSimulations
Moments lab
Balance a metre rule with water bottles, then turn a tight nut with a spanner. Moment meter, balance graph and a five-round challenge.
Beam reactions
Move a sandbag along a beam on two scales and find the support reactions. Push pin-jointed frames to see why trusses use triangles, then judge which frames are rigid.
Newton's second law
Release a trolley pulled by a hanging mass. A light gate times it; find a = 2s ÷ t² and plot a against F.
Wheel and gears
Pedal a bicycle chain drive, count and time 10 wheel turns, and compare rim and hub speeds. Then choose a pillar-drill speed.
Block and tackle
A Blender-made pulley rig. Count the supporting ropes, pull the spring balance and find MA, VR and efficiency. Three-round efficiency challenge.
Work, energy and power
Carry a sandbag up the stairs against the clock. Then heat water in a cut-away kettle and see where the energy goes.
Magnetism and electromagnetism
Switch on an electromagnet, count the paper clips it holds and find its poles with plotting compasses. Then load a DC motor with a brake and find its efficiency.
Three forces in equilibrium
Drag the pegs of three spring balances. Read forces and angles, and watch the triangle of forces close.
Stiffness and friction
Load a pine strip flat and on edge and read the dial gauge. Tilt a board until a block slips to find μ.
3D models made in Blender (pictures for slides and handouts)
Each model folder in blender also has a .glb for PowerPoint (Insert › 3D Models › This Device) and a README with questions for the class. A picture that does not show here has not been made yet.
For class records, mark the results sheet V for virtual. Complete the real practical before the semester practical examination.
Use Full view (or press F) for whole-class demonstrations. Runs in Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, on a laptop or a phone. Built with three.js (MIT licence) and Blender.