Inelastic Collision Calculator

Inelastic Collision Formula:

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

Mass 1 (m₁):

Initial Velocity 1 (u₁):

m/s

Mass 2 (m₂):

Initial Velocity 2 (u₂):

m/s

Final Velocity (v_f):

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1. What is Inelastic Collision?

An inelastic collision is a type of collision where kinetic energy is not conserved, but momentum is conserved. In perfectly inelastic collisions, the colliding objects stick together after impact and move with a common final velocity.

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 (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: This formula calculates the final velocity when two objects collide and stick together, conserving momentum but not necessarily kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Inelastic Collision Calculation

Details: Calculating final velocity in inelastic collisions is crucial in physics, engineering, accident reconstruction, and various real-world applications where objects combine after impact.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second. Mass values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's 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, and some kinetic energy is converted to other forms.

Q2: Does this formula work for all inelastic collisions?
A: This formula is specifically for perfectly inelastic collisions where objects stick together. For partially inelastic collisions, additional factors are needed.

Q3: What if the objects are moving in opposite directions?
A: Use negative values for velocities in the opposite direction of your chosen positive reference direction.

Q4: Can this be used for more than two objects?
A: This specific formula is for two objects. For multiple objects, the formula would need to be extended.

Q5: What are real-world examples of inelastic collisions?
A: Car accidents, bullet embedding in a target, clay hitting a surface, and any impact where objects deform and stick together.