How To Calculate Collision

Inelastic Collision Equation:

\[ v_f = \frac{m_1 v_1 + m_2 v_2}{m_1 + m_2} \]

Mass 1 (m1):

Initial Velocity 1 (v1):

m/s

Mass 2 (m2):

Initial Velocity 2 (v2):

m/s

Final Velocity (v_f):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Inelastic Collision?

An inelastic collision is a type of collision where kinetic energy is not conserved, but momentum is conserved. The objects stick together after collision and move with a common final velocity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the inelastic collision equation:

\[ v_f = \frac{m_1 v_1 + m_2 v_2}{m_1 + m_2} \]

Where:

\( v_f \) — Final velocity after collision (m/s)
\( m_1 \) — Mass of first object (kg)
\( v_1 \) — Initial velocity of first object (m/s)
\( m_2 \) — Mass of second object (kg)
\( v_2 \) — Initial velocity of second object (m/s)

Explanation: This equation calculates the common final velocity when two objects collide and stick together in a perfectly inelastic collision.

3. Importance of Collision Calculation

Details: Calculating final velocity in inelastic collisions is crucial for understanding momentum conservation, analyzing car crashes, studying particle physics, and designing safety systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter masses in kilograms, velocities in meters per second. Positive velocities indicate direction. All mass values must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between elastic and inelastic collision?
A: In elastic collisions, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. In inelastic collisions, only momentum is conserved while kinetic energy is not.

Q2: Can velocities be negative in this calculation?
A: Yes, negative velocities indicate direction opposite to the positive reference direction.

Q3: What happens if one mass is much larger than the other?
A: The final velocity will be close to the initial velocity of the larger mass object.

Q4: Is this equation valid for all types of collisions?
A: No, this equation is specifically for perfectly inelastic collisions where objects stick together after impact.

Q5: How does this relate to real-world applications?
A: This calculation is used in automotive safety design, sports equipment analysis, and understanding various physical phenomena in engineering and physics.