Balls in a Box Model

Abstract:

The Balls in a Box model shows a system of particles is very sensitive to its initial conditions. In general, an isolated system of many particles that is prepared in a nonrandom configuration will change in time so as to approach its most random configuration where it is in equilibrium. What happens if we choose the initial conditions in a very special way?

The default initial condition corresponds to eight stationary particles perfectly aligned on the x-axis. Two particles approach from the left and the right. What happens when these particles collide with the eight stationary particles? The EJS model solves Newton's second law of motion numerically but pauses when a collision is detected. This is called an EJS event. Conservation of energy and momentum are applied at the event and the simulation is resumed.

Subject:

Science and Technology

Grade Level:

Post-secondary

Collection:

Open Source Physics