PHYIC CALCULATOR
Elastic Collision Calculator
A precise tool.
What is the Elastic Collision Calculator & How does it work?
In a perfectly elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. This means that the total momentum before the collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision, and the total kinetic energy before the collision is equal to the total kinetic energy after the collision.
m_1u_1 + m_2u_2 = m_1v_1 + m_2v_2
m = mass, u = initial velocity, v = final velocity
Additionally, the kinetic energy before and after the collision is conserved:
frac{1}{2}m_1u_1^2 + frac{1}{2}m_2u_2^2 = frac{1}{2}m_1v_1^2 + frac{1}{2}m_2v_2^2
m = mass, u = initial velocity, v = final velocity
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a perfectly elastic collision?
A perfectly elastic collision is one in which both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.
How do I use this calculator?
Enter the masses and initial velocities of the two objects to find their final velocities after the collision.
What happens to the total kinetic energy in an elastic collision?
The total kinetic energy remains constant before and after the collision.
Can this calculator handle collisions with more than two objects?
This calculator is designed for two-object collisions only.
What are the assumptions made in an elastic collision?
The assumptions include no external forces acting on the system and perfectly elastic materials involved.
How does this differ from an inelastic collision?
In an inelastic collision, some kinetic energy is converted to other forms of energy like heat or sound, whereas in an elastic collision, all kinetic energy is preserved.
Can I use this calculator for any type of object?
Yes, you can use it for objects with different masses and velocities as long as the collision is perfectly elastic.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.