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 formula:

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 formula is derived from the conservation of momentum principle, where the total momentum before collision equals the 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 kinetic energy is conserved. In inelastic collisions, some kinetic energy is converted to other forms like heat, sound, or deformation energy.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter all masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second. Positive velocities indicate movement in one direction, negative velocities indicate movement 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, while kinetic energy is not conserved.

Q2: Can this formula be used for perfectly inelastic collisions?
A: Yes, this formula is specifically for perfectly inelastic collisions where the objects stick together after impact.

Q3: What happens if the masses are equal?
A: If masses are equal, the final velocity becomes the average of the two initial velocities: \( v_f = \frac{v_1 + v_2}{2} \).

Q4: How do negative velocities affect the calculation?
A: Negative velocities represent movement in the opposite direction. The formula accounts for direction through the sign of velocity values.

Q5: Is this applicable to real-world collisions?
A: This provides an idealized calculation. Real collisions may involve additional factors like friction, air resistance, and energy loss to heat and sound.