SimSurface Tools

The tool palette of SimSurface is designed to encourage and facilitate inquiry-based learning. The tools and their descriptions follow.(Note: remember to take into account the "snap to charge" option in the Settings dialog box--when this option is set, SimSurface will always assume that the user intends to click on charges, and any click near a charge will automatically be moved to that charge).

Mover

Allows user to move the charges around--just click on the charge you want to move and drag it to the desired location. Option-click allows you to set the coordinates directly. (Note: remember to take into account the "snap to charge" option in the Settings dialog box)

Distance measure

Measures the distance (in pixels) between charges (or any two points). Click on the first point and drag to the next. DIstance is displayed in the Info window.

Angle measure

Measures any angle. Click on three points in succession and the angle (the second point will be the vertex of the angle) will be displayed in the Info window.

Add a charge

Adds a single charge to the charge window. Click where you want the new charge to be.

Remove a charge

Removes a charge. Click on the charge you want obliterated.

Pin (fix the location of) a charge

Causes a charge to remain in place for subsequent randomization and/or annealing. It is also the "unpin" tool--that is, if you want to unpin a charge, simply click on it with this tool.

Find the coordinates of a charge

Shows the coordinates (x,y) of the charge.