Use the formula for conservation of momentum to calculate the final velocity after an inelastic collision by summing the momenta of the objects and dividing by their total mass.
The Inelastic Collision Velocity Calculator computes the final velocity of two colliding objects that stick together post-collision. In inelastic collisions, momentum is conserved while kinetic energy is not. This calculator is particularly useful in physics and engineering to analyze collisions in one dimension, determining the combined velocity of objects after impact.
Formula:
Contents
V = (M₁ ∗ V₁ + M₂ ∗ V₂) / (M₁ + M₂)
Variables:
| Variable | Description | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| V | Final velocity after the collision | m/s |
| M₁ | Mass of the first object | kg |
| V₁ | Initial velocity of the first object | m/s |
| M₂ | Mass of the second object | kg |
| V₂ | Initial velocity of the second object | m/s |
Solved Calculations:
Example 1: Calculating Final Velocity for Two Cars
| Step | Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mass of first car (M₁) | 1000 kg | Given mass of the first object |
| Velocity of first car (V₁) | 20 m/s | Given initial velocity of the first object |
| Mass of second car (M₂) | 1200 kg | Given mass of the second object |
| Velocity of second car (V₂) | 10 m/s | Given initial velocity of the second object |
| Apply formula | (1000 ∗ 20 + 1200 ∗ 10) / (1000 + 1200) | Substitute values into the formula |
| Result | 14.55 m/s | Final velocity of the combined cars |
Example 2: Collision of Two Objects
| Step | Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mass of first object (M₁) | 5 kg | Given mass of the first object |
| Velocity of first object (V₁) | 3 m/s | Given initial velocity of the first object |
| Mass of second object (M₂) | 8 kg | Given mass of the second object |
| Velocity of second object (V₂) | 2 m/s | Given initial velocity of the second object |
| Apply formula | (5 ∗ 3 + 8 ∗ 2) / (5 + 8) | Substitute values into the formula |
| Result | 2.38 m/s | Final velocity of the combined objects |
What is the Inelastic Collision Velocity Calculator?
The Inelastic Collision Velocity Calculator is a specialized tool. It has the potential to simplify the calculation of final velocities after an inelastic collision. In physics, inelastic collisions occur when two objects collide and stick together or deform, leading to a loss of kinetic energy. This calculator is invaluable for students, researchers, and enthusiasts seeking to understand momentum and energy changes in such scenarios.
This tool uses the principle of conservation of momentum to determine the final velocity of the colliding objects. Whether you’re working on a classroom problem or analyzing real-world collisions, it provides quick and accurate results.
For instance, if two objects with different masses and velocities collide, the calculator instantly computes their combined velocity post-collision.
Additionally, it supports practical learning by clarifying complex concepts like momentum conservation and energy dissipation. By entering the masses and initial velocities of the objects, you can visualize the collision’s outcome, enhancing your understanding of inelastic collisions.
Final Words:
To summarize, the Inelastic Collision Velocity Calculator is an essential tool for exploring the dynamics of collisions. Its precision and ease of use make it an excellent resource for academic, professional, or experimental applications.
