PHET Interactive Simulations 

Choose the Right Mode: Most simulations feature different screens across the bottom, such as Intro, Symbolic, or Lab. Start with Intro to learn the basic controls, then move to Lab when you are ready to collect data or run experiments.

Master the Controls:

• Pause & Step (⏸ / ▶|): Select the pause button at the bottom of the screen to freeze time, then select the step-forward button to observe changes frame-by-frame.

• Reset Button (🔄): Located in the bottom corner, this resets the simulation back to its default state without refreshing your entire web page.

• Measurement Tools: Drag tools like rulers, stopwatches, or sensors directly from the right-side control panel onto the screen to take precise measurements.

• See the Unseen: PhET makes invisible science visible. Students can see tiny atoms, watch electricity flow, or trace sound waves right on your screen to understand how stuff really works.

• Test Ideas Risk-Free: Drag sliders, flip switches, and change temperature to test "what if?" questions instantly.

• Level Up Your Studying: Play with the sims, test skills with built-in rulers and timers, and rebuild class experiments to help study concepts.

Last Edited: August 28, 2026