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Re: [Phys-l] force +- momentum flow



I wrote:

Flow can be explained in various ways.

Another resource, another arrow to put in your quiver:

The "Newton's Cradle" toy is valuable for teaching about
momentum flow.

Pull back ball #1 while leaving the others dangling at rest.
Release ball #1.
The momentum flows from ball #1, such that there is a net
loss of momentum in that ball.
The momentum flows through ball #2, through ball #3, and
through ball #4, entering and leaving in such a wah that
there is no net loss or gain of momentum in those balls.
The momentum flows into ball #5 and accumulates there.

The same thing happens all the time in fluid dynamics ...
but getting people to understand fluid dynamics is a big
job; getting them to understand Newton's cradle is much
easier and is a big step in the right direction.