Analyze inelastic impacts with momentum, velocity, and energy outputs. Compare bodies, inspect losses, and visualize every collision step clearly.
The graph compares initial and final velocities and shows how the collision changes kinetic energy.
| Scenario | Mass 1 (kg) | Mass 2 (kg) | Initial v1 (m/s) | Initial v2 (m/s) | e | Final v1 (m/s) | Final v2 (m/s) | Energy Lost (J) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cart impact | 2 | 3 | 8 | -1 | 0.4 | 0.8 | 5.8 | 43.2 |
| Perfect stick | 1.5 | 2.5 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 2.875 | 2.875 | 9.375 |
| Slow rebound | 4 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0.2 | 2.4 | 2.4 | 1.44 |
An inelastic collision conserves total momentum but not total kinetic energy. Some energy changes into sound, heat, deformation, or internal vibration during impact.
A perfectly inelastic collision is the strongest inelastic case. The bodies stick together after impact and move with one shared final velocity.
The coefficient of restitution measures how strongly bodies separate after impact. A value near 0 means stronger energy loss. A value near 1 behaves more elastically.
Yes. Negative velocity represents motion opposite to the chosen positive direction. This is useful for head-on collisions or objects approaching each other.
Momentum conservation follows from external force balance. Kinetic energy can still decrease because part of it converts into other energy forms during deformation or heating.
Use kilograms for mass and meters per second for velocity. The outputs then appear in standard SI units such as joules and kilogram meter per second.
It shows final momentum minus initial momentum. A value very close to zero confirms the calculation is numerically consistent with momentum conservation.
Choose general mode when the objects separate after impact. Choose perfect mode when they lock together and continue with a shared velocity.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.