A Newton's Cradle science kit is a desk toy or educational model that demonstrates the principles of physics, particularly:
 
Conservation of momentum
Conservation of energy
Elastic collisions
 
What It Is:
 
A typical Newton's Cradle consists of a series of identically sized metal balls (usually 5) suspended in a straight line by thin wires so they barely touch each other when at rest.
 
How It Works:
 
When you lift and release one ball on the end, it strikes the stationary balls in the center.
 
The impact transfers its energy and momentum through the middle balls to the ball on the opposite end, which swings out.
 
The process repeats, showing energy and momentum being conserved and transferred.
 
Uses:
 
Educational Tool: Helps students understand Newtonian physics in a visual and intuitive way.
 
Desk Toy: Popular as an executive toy for stress relief or decoration.
 
Demonstration Kit: Used in classrooms or science fairs to demonstrate physics principles.
 
Key Concepts Demonstrated:
 
Newton’s Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
 
Energy Transfer: Kinetic energy moves through the stationary balls with minimal loss.
 
Elastic Collisions: Ideal versions show nearly perfect elastic collisions.