Final Velocity Inelastic Collision Calculator With Time

Final Velocity Formula For Inelastic Collision:

\[ v_f = \frac{m_1 u_1 + m_2 u_2}{m_1 + m_2} \]

Mass 1 (m1):

Initial Velocity 1 (u1):

m/s

Mass 2 (m2):

Initial Velocity 2 (u2):

m/s

Final Velocity (vf):

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1. What Is The Final Velocity Inelastic Collision Formula?

The final velocity formula for inelastic collision calculates the common velocity of two objects after they collide and stick together. This formula is derived from the conservation of momentum principle, where time is not directly used in the calculation.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the inelastic collision formula:

\[ v_f = \frac{m_1 u_1 + m_2 u_2}{m_1 + m_2} \]

Where:

\( v_f \) — Final velocity after collision (m/s)
\( m_1 \) — Mass of first object (kg)
\( u_1 \) — Initial velocity of first object (m/s)
\( m_2 \) — Mass of second object (kg)
\( u_2 \) — Initial velocity of second object (m/s)

Explanation: The formula calculates the final velocity when two objects collide and move together as a single object after impact, conserving momentum but not necessarily kinetic energy.

3. Importance Of Final Velocity Calculation

Details: Calculating final velocity in inelastic collisions is essential for understanding momentum conservation in physics, analyzing vehicle collisions, ballistics, and various engineering applications involving impact scenarios.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second. All mass values must be positive, and velocities can be positive or negative depending on direction.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is time not used in this formula?
A: The formula is derived from momentum conservation, which doesn't require time information for calculating the final velocity in perfectly inelastic collisions.

Q2: What defines an inelastic collision?
A: An inelastic collision is one where kinetic energy is not conserved, but momentum is conserved. In perfectly inelastic collisions, the objects stick together after impact.

Q3: Can this formula be used for elastic collisions?
A: No, elastic collisions have different formulas as both objects typically separate after collision with different final velocities.

Q4: How does direction affect the calculation?
A: Velocity direction matters. Use positive values for one direction and negative values for the opposite direction in the calculation.

Q5: What are real-world applications of this formula?
A: This formula is used in accident reconstruction, sports physics, industrial processes, and any scenario where objects collide and combine.