Elastic Collision
Verified Calculation Engine
The online Elastic Collision helps you calculate instantly and solve problems related to Laws Of Motion. This tool provides accurate results using standard formulas and step-by-step calculation; you can view the formula with example in the calculator where available. Whether you are a student, teacher, or professional, this calculator simplifies complex calculations and saves time. Enter the required values below and get instant results. Results are shown clearly, with optional step-by-step explanation where applicable. The tool is free to use and works in any modern browser—no download or installation required. Bookmark this page for quick access whenever you need reliable Physics calculations.
Elastic Collision: calculate the requested physical quantity from the stated inputs using m₁v₁ + m₂v₂ = constant. The page states the model assumptions, units and worked examples so the result can be checked.
- One-dimensional perfectly elastic collision; masses are positive and external impulse is negligible.
Inputs
Results
Symbols, Variables & Units
| Input | Symbol / name | Unit | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
mass1 | Mass 1 | kg | Mass 1 in kg. |
velocity1 | Velocity 1 | m/s | Velocity 1 in m/s. |
mass2 | Mass 2 | kg | Mass 2 in kg. |
velocity2 | Velocity 2 | m/s | Velocity 2 in m/s. |
Use a consistent unit system. The Physics engine evaluates numerical inputs in the units stated beside each field; it does not silently convert incompatible dimensions.
Physics Study Guide
Concept
Elastic collisions
Exam focus
Write both momentum and kinetic-energy conservation; for a 1-D elastic collision you can solve the two equations for the two final velocities.
Common mistakes
- Momentum conservation alone does not define an elastic collision.
- Use signed velocities for opposite directions.
- Do not apply the 1-D formula to a genuinely two-dimensional collision.
How to verify your answer
Check both total momentum and total kinetic energy before and after the collision.
Model limits
This result is valid only under the assumptions stated on the calculator page. For real systems with non-ideal geometry, losses, distributed effects or relativistic/quantum corrections, use the appropriate advanced model.
Worked Examples
Worked example
Use mass1 = 2, velocity1 = 10, mass2 = 2, velocity2 = 10. The validated result is final velocity1 = 10, final velocity2 = 10.
- mass1: 2
- velocity1: 10
- mass2: 2
- velocity2: 10
- finalVelocity1: 10
- finalVelocity2: 10
- result: 10
Second worked example
Use mass1 = 3, velocity1 = 15, mass2 = 3, velocity2 = 15. The validated result is final velocity1 = 15, final velocity2 = 15.
- mass1: 3
- velocity1: 15
- mass2: 3
- velocity2: 15
- finalVelocity1: 15
- finalVelocity2: 15
- result: 15