Inelastic Velocity Calculator

Inelastic Collision Formula:

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

Mass 1 (m1):

Mass 2 (m2):

Initial Velocity 1 (u1):

m/s

Initial Velocity 2 (u2):

m/s

Final Velocity (vf):

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1. What is Inelastic Collision?

An inelastic collision is a collision in which kinetic energy is not conserved due to the action of internal friction. In these collisions, the colliding objects stick together and move as one body after the collision.

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)
\( m_2 \) — Mass of second object (kg)
\( u_1 \) — Initial velocity of first object (m/s)
\( u_2 \) — 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 kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Inelastic Collision Calculation

Details: Calculating final velocity in inelastic collisions is crucial for understanding momentum conservation, analyzing real-world collision scenarios, and designing safety systems in vehicles and machinery.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all mass values in kilograms and velocity values in meters per second. All 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 while kinetic energy is not.

Q2: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula applies to perfectly inelastic collisions where the two objects stick together and move as a single object after collision.

Q3: Can this formula be used for multiple objects?
A: The basic formula is for two objects. For multiple objects, the formula extends to \( v_f = \frac{\sum m_i u_i}{\sum m_i} \).

Q4: What are real-world examples of inelastic collisions?
A: Car crashes, bullet embedding in a target, two pieces of clay sticking together, and railroad cars coupling are common examples.

Q5: How does energy transform in inelastic collisions?
A: The "lost" kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy such as heat, sound, and deformation energy.