Swing worksheet other worksheets
for use with materialworlds Swing simulation
© materialworlds.com 2001

This simulation shows the stresses and strains on a garden swing structure.

When the swing slows down you can get it going faster either by clicking the rewind button, or by giving it a small push or pull with the mouse - but not too hard...

As the swing supports (front and back) become compressed they are drawn in red - or yellow under greater compression. Under tension the supports are drawn in blue.

Like many garden swings, the supports aren't very firmly anchored in the ground - they wobble back and forth a bit - and if you swing too high they'll lift into the air.

1. a) When is a swing support under the greatest compression?
    b) When is a swing support under tension?

Pause and sketch the simulation at the right moment(s) to help illustrate your answers.

3. How is this swing dangerous?

4. How would you make it safer?