1. What is Post-collision Speed?

Post-collision speed refers to the final velocity of two objects after an inelastic collision, where the objects stick together and move as a single unit. This calculation is fundamental in physics for understanding momentum conservation in collisions.

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 in an inelastic collision.

3. Importance of Collision Speed Calculation

Details: Calculating post-collision speed is crucial for analyzing vehicle accidents, sports collisions, particle physics experiments, and engineering safety designs. It helps predict the outcome of impacts and design protective measures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second. Masses must be positive values greater than zero. Velocities can be positive or negative depending on direction.

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 not conserved as some energy is converted to other forms like heat or sound.

Q2: Can this formula be used for head-on collisions?
A: Yes, this formula applies to one-dimensional inelastic collisions where objects move along the same straight line before and after collision.

Q3: What if the objects are moving in opposite directions?
A: Use negative values for velocities in the opposite direction. The calculator will properly account for the direction through the sign of the velocity.

Q4: Does this work for multiple objects?
A: This specific formula is for two objects. For multiple objects, the formula extends to \( v_f = \frac{\sum m_i v_i}{\sum m_i} \) for perfectly inelastic collisions.

Q5: What are real-world applications of this calculation?
A: Vehicle crash analysis, sports physics (like football tackles), industrial machinery safety, and astronomical calculations of celestial body collisions.