PHet

PhET Interactive Simulations, commonly referred to as PhET, is a collection of free, interactive simulations for teaching and learning science and mathematics. The simulations cover topics across physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and math and are designed to make abstract concepts tangible through exploration and inquiry.

The PhET project was established at the University of Colorado Boulder in 2002 with the goal of providing accessible, research-based learning tools that help students visualize phenomena and test hypotheses in a safe, collaborative environment. The simulations are designed to support inquiry-based learning, allowing users to adjust variables, observe outcomes, and compare with predictions. Many simulations include guided activities, real-time graphs, and measurement tools to aid conceptual understanding.

Availability and licensing: PhET simulations are freely accessible online and, in most cases, downloadable for offline use. They run on a range of devices and are available in many languages, expanding access to diverse learners. The simulations are released under a Creative Commons license that permits non-commercial use with attribution.

Impact and usage: PhET is widely adopted by schools, universities, and homeschooling communities around the world as a resource for introductory science and mathematics education. The project continues to add new simulations and update existing ones, supported by the PhET team at the University of Colorado Boulder and various funding sources.