Equation for inelastic collision

In an isolated collision, total momentum is conserved whether the collision is elastic or inelastic. For two objects moving along one line, momentum conservation can be written m₁u₁ + m₂u₂ = m₁v₁ + m₂v₂.

How it works

In an inelastic collision, kinetic energy is not conserved as kinetic energy; some becomes heat, sound, deformation, or other forms. In a perfectly inelastic collision, objects stick together and share a final velocity.

Example or application

For a perfectly inelastic collision, the final velocity is (m₁u₁ + m₂u₂)/(m₁ + m₂), assuming no significant external impulse. Signs represent direction along the chosen axis.

Scope and limits

This model assumes an isolated system and uses consistent units. Momentum conservation does not mean total energy disappears; energy changes form.

Explore the parent hub: Physics, Space and Earth Science