Science
One-dimensional elastic collision
Find both velocities after a perfectly elastic collision along one axis.
Calculators / Science / Perfectly inelastic collision
Perfectly inelastic collision calculator
Find the shared velocity and kinetic energy loss when two bodies stick together.
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Combined final velocity1m/s
Kinetic energy lost15J
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How to calculate
Find the shared velocity and kinetic energy loss when two bodies stick together.
Combined final velocity =
(m1*u1+m2*u2)/(m1+m2) m/sKinetic energy lost =
m1*m2*(u1-u2)^2/(2*(m1+m2)) JWorked example
- First mass (kg): 2
- Second mass (kg): 3
- First initial velocity (m/s): 4
- Second initial velocity (m/s): -1
- Combined final velocity: 1 m/s
- Kinetic energy lost: 15 J
Assumptions and limits
This is an ideal educational model. Enter quantities in the stated SI units; it does not certify equipment safety or real operating limits. External impulse is negligible during the collision; both bodies remain joined afterwards.
Results are rounded for display; calculations use unrounded values. Read our calculation methodology.
Understanding the result
Find the shared velocity and kinetic energy loss when two bodies stick together. Energy loss here is kinetic energy converted to other forms. It is not an estimate of injury or structural damage.
When this tool is useful
Energy loss here is kinetic energy converted to other forms. It is not an estimate of injury or structural damage.
Understanding your inputs
| Input | Example |
|---|---|
First mass (kg) m1 | 2 |
Second mass (kg) m2 | 3 |
First initial velocity (m/s) u1 | 4 |
Second initial velocity (m/s) u2 | -1 |
Frequently asked questions
Which assumptions matter for this result?
This is an ideal educational model. Enter quantities in the stated SI units; it does not certify equipment safety or real operating limits. External impulse is negligible during the collision; both bodies remain joined afterwards.
How can I check the worked example?
Use the displayed example inputs in the stated formula. Keep each quantity in its labelled unit and compare the unrounded result before applying display rounding.