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 momentum conservation formula for inelastic collisions:

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: The formula is derived from the principle of conservation of momentum, where total momentum before collision equals total momentum after collision.

3. Importance of Momentum Conservation

Details: Momentum conservation is a fundamental principle in physics that applies to all collisions, regardless of whether they are elastic or inelastic. It's essential for predicting the motion of objects after collision.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second. Positive velocities indicate motion in one direction, negative velocities indicate motion in the opposite direction. Masses must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between elastic and inelastic collisions?
A: In elastic collisions, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. In inelastic collisions, only momentum is conserved - kinetic energy is lost to heat, sound, or deformation.

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

Q3: What happens if one object is stationary?
A: If v2 = 0, the formula simplifies to \( v_f = \frac{m_1 v_1}{m_1 + m_2} \), showing the final velocity is reduced by the mass ratio.

Q4: Does this work for objects moving in opposite directions?
A: Yes, simply use negative values for velocities in the opposite direction to your chosen positive direction.

Q5: What are real-world examples of inelastic collisions?
A: Car crashes, a bullet embedding in a block of wood, two pieces of clay sticking together after collision, and railway cars coupling together.