Classroom mode
Run it in class
Why does a ball on a string fly off the second you let go?
Show of hands — before you project anything
Predict first: when the string is cut, will the ball go straight outward from the center or sideways? Vote, then watch.
- A Way more than you'd guess
- B About what you'd guess
- C Way less than you'd guess
Count the votes out loud. Hold them to it — then watch.
Project it (fullscreen)
Discussion prompts
- Predict first: when the string is cut, will the ball go straight outward from the center or sideways? Vote, then watch.
- If there is no force pushing the ball outward, what is the only real force acting on it while it circles? Where does that force point?
- Predict what changes about the ball's path the instant the string is gone, and what happens a moment later because of gravity.
Where it shows up in real life
- A hammer thrower or discus athlete spinning and releasing at sports day
- Swinging a conker or yo-yo on a string, or a bucket of water on a rope
- Letting go on a spinning playground merry-go-round and feeling flung sideways
A prediction-first worksheet — no answer key.
zero prep · no login · any projector
Winding down at home? Family mode ·
Explore every question
Why does a ball on a string fly off the second you let go?
Predict — what do you think will happen, and why?
Talk about it
- Predict first: when the string is cut, will the ball go straight outward from the center or sideways? Vote, then watch.
- If there is no force pushing the ball outward, what is the only real force acting on it while it circles? Where does that force point?
- Predict what changes about the ball's path the instant the string is gone, and what happens a moment later because of gravity.