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No. 5 of 32 ·Chemistry Simulation Software

PhET Interactive Simulations

Web · Windows · Mac · Android · iPhone

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Freedom report

Three barsScore 6.6

  • Free tierA free tier is on its own pricing page
  • Open codeNo open-source code on record
  • Runs widely5 of 6 device platforms
  • DocumentedPlans, terms and facts published

PhET Interactive Simulations offers interactive science and mathematics activities for learners from preschool through university, with a focus on K–12 science. Its simulations support virtual experiments and guided lessons, using design principles such as scientific inquiry, visual models, multiple representations, real-world connections, and flexible classroom use. PhET says the simulations are evaluated for educational effectiveness through student interviews and classroom observation. All are open source; most use HTML5, while some older simulations use Java or Flash. They can run online or be downloaded. The mobile apps include HTML5 simulations and translations for offline use, and the desktop app offers HTML5 and Java simulations and translations offline on Windows and macOS. PhET is available on the web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and select Chromebooks. The free plan is available to students and teachers, while commercial use requires a license from the University of Colorado Boulder. Android browser-based HTML5 simulations and Linux are not officially supported.

Who it is for

PhET suits students and educators seeking interactive science and mathematics activities, especially for preschool, K–12, and college learning. Its offline apps may suit learners who need downloadable simulations.

What is good

  • Free simulations are available to students and teachers.
  • Simulations support virtual experiments and guided lessons.
  • All simulations are open source.
  • Mobile apps support offline use.
  • Available on web, desktop, and mobile platforms.

What to know first

  • Android browser-based HTML5 simulations are not officially supported.
  • Linux is not officially supported.
  • Commercial use requires a license.

Verdict

PhET combines interactive simulations with online and offline access across several platforms. Students and teachers can use the free plan, but commercial users need a license and some platform limitations apply.

PhET Interactive Simulations plans and pricing

All plans
Free simulations Free Free to all students and teachers · online or downloadable · open source phet.colorado.edu · 1 Oct 2026

Compared on chemistry simulation software

Free plan
Yes

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