PHYSICS FOUNDRY / INVESTIGATION 01

Same push. Different motion?

Predict the baseline, then change one quantity and compare the evidence.

Baseline ready for prediction

Flat track, positive x forward. Each trial begins from rest and lasts 4 simulation seconds. Playback speed and camera position do not change the trial.

Forces on the vehicle

Recorded interval forces. The normal force balances weight on this flat surface; resistance is zero.

Velocity against time

Gold: current trial · Teal: completed baseline. Traces show recorded motion only.

Fnet,x = m ax · predict before observing

Complete the baseline to establish your comparison.

Conditions and limits

This investigation uses a constant requested driving force, a fixed vehicle mass, an initially stationary vehicle, level ground, no air or rolling resistance, no steering, no braking, no boost, no collisions and sufficient grip to deliver the requested force. Gravity is 9.8 m/s². The track’s normal force balances weight; vertical acceleration is zero.

The requested force, force delivered by the driving solver, measured change in velocity and simulation time are recorded separately. The equation, graph and animation use those records. This is an idealized force–mass investigation; it does not model energy supply, tire deformation or a full suspension. Vehicle appearance is cosmetic. Trial settings do not install upgrades or alter any race.

Pause freezes simulation time; it does not physically brake the vehicle. Replay shows the recorded trial. Repeat creates a fresh trial from rest with the same settings and original prediction.