Perfectly Inelastic Collision
Verified Calculation Engine
The online Perfectly Inelastic 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.
Perfectly Inelastic 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 inelastic collision; the two objects stick together after impact 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
Perfectly inelastic collisions
Exam focus
Use v_f=(m₁v₁+m₂v₂)/(m₁+m₂) and remember that kinetic energy is not conserved in a perfectly inelastic collision.
Common mistakes
- Do not conserve kinetic energy in a perfectly inelastic collision.
- Use signed velocities in the same reference direction.
- The masses in the denominator are added because the bodies move together.
How to verify your answer
Check that m₁v₁+m₂v₂=(m₁+m₂)v_f.
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 velocity = 10.
- mass1: 2
- velocity1: 10
- mass2: 2
- velocity2: 10
- finalVelocity: 10
- result: 10
Second worked example
Use mass1 = 3, velocity1 = 15, mass2 = 3, velocity2 = 15. The validated result is final velocity = 15.
- mass1: 3
- velocity1: 15
- mass2: 3
- velocity2: 15
- finalVelocity: 15
- result: 15