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 equation:

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 equation calculates the common final velocity when two objects collide and stick together in a perfectly inelastic collision, conserving momentum but not kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Final Velocity Calculation

Details: Calculating final velocity in inelastic collisions is crucial for understanding impact forces, vehicle crash analysis, sports physics, and engineering safety designs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second. Mass values must be positive, while 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 lost to heat, sound, or deformation.

Q2: Can velocities be negative in this calculation?
A: Yes, negative velocities indicate movement in the opposite direction of the defined positive direction.

Q3: What happens if one object is stationary?
A: If v2 = 0, the equation simplifies to \( v_f = \frac{m_1 v_1}{m_1 + m_2} \), showing the final velocity depends on the ratio of masses.

Q4: Is this applicable to all inelastic collisions?
A: This applies specifically to perfectly inelastic collisions where objects stick together. Partially inelastic collisions have different calculations.

Q5: How does mass ratio affect final velocity?
A: When m1 >> m2, vf ≈ v1. When m2 >> m1, vf ≈ v2. Equal masses result in average velocity of the two objects.