PhET Interactive Simulations
Engaging and research-based interactive simulations for science and math.
Overview
Founded by Nobel Laureate Carl Wieman, the PhET project at the University of Colorado Boulder creates free, interactive simulations for teaching and learning science. While broad, it includes many simulations relevant to engineering principles like circuits, forces, and energy.
✨ Key Features
- Large library of simulations (Physics, Chemistry, Math, Biology)
- HTML5-based, runs in any modern browser
- Research-based and tested for educational effectiveness
- Free to use for all students and teachers
- Available in many languages
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Completely free and open source
- Grounded in educational research
- Intuitive, game-like environment
Unique Value: Provides a vast, high-quality, and completely free library of simulations that make abstract science and engineering concepts visible and understandable.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- Building virtual circuits to understand Ohm's law
- Exploring forces and motion with a virtual skateboarder
- Investigating the properties of waves
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Advanced engineering analysis (FEA/CFD)
- 3D CAD modeling
- Industry-specific research
🏆 Alternatives
Unlike commercial alternatives, PhET is entirely free and its development is driven by educational research rather than profit motives.
💻 Platforms
✅ Offline Mode Available
🔌 Integrations
🛟 Support Options
- ✓ Email Support
- ✓ Dedicated Support (NA tier)
🔒 Compliance & Security
💰 Pricing
Free tier: The entire platform is free.
🔄 Similar Tools in Engineering Simulation
SOLIDWORKS Education Edition
A comprehensive 3D design software suite for educators and students....
Autodesk Fusion 360 for Education
A cloud-based 3D modeling, CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB software platform....
MATLAB & Simulink
A high-level language and interactive environment for numerical computation, visualization, and prog...
Ansys Academic
Provides access to Ansys's portfolio of simulation software for teaching, research, and student proj...
COMSOL Multiphysics
A general-purpose simulation software for modeling designs, devices, and processes in all fields of ...
Onshape for Education
A fully cloud-native product development platform with CAD, data management, and collaboration tools...