Developing an Interactive Simulation for Noninertial Reference Frames

Abstract

The forces involved in the motion of objects within noninertial reference frames are challenging concepts for introductory and advanced mechanics students. Furthermore, students often struggle to predict the trajectories of an object due to these fictitious forces. While most students encounter noninertial reference frames daily, students often spend most of their physics coursework analyzing situations in which the Coriolis and centrifugal forces are negligible. We developed an interactive and freely accessible simulation of a rotating turntable apparatus that aims to improve understanding of the motion of objects in noninertial reference frames.