Elastic Collision Calculator at 90 Degrees
Elastic collisions at 90 degrees are a fundamental concept in physics, crucial for understanding the conservation of momentum and energy. Our calculator helps you understand and apply these principles.
- Enter the masses of the two objects (in kilograms) and their velocities (in meters per second).
- Click ‘Calculate’.
- View the results and chart below.
The formula for calculating the final velocities (v1f and v2f) in an elastic collision at 90 degrees is:
v1f = (m2 * v2i – m1 * v1i) / (m1 + m2)
v2f = (m1 * v1i – m2 * v2i) / (m1 + m2)
| Mass 1 (kg) | Mass 2 (kg) | Velocity 1 (m/s) | Velocity 2 (m/s) | Final Velocity 1 (m/s) | Final Velocity 2 (m/s) |
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- Always ensure the masses and velocities are in the correct units (kg and m/s respectively).
- Remember, the total momentum before and after the collision must be the same.
- For a more detailed analysis, consider using a physics simulation software.
What happens if the collision is not elastic?
In a non-elastic collision, some energy is lost, and the final velocities will differ from the calculated values.
For more information, see the elastic collisions page at Georgia State University.
You can also learn more about elastic collisions from NASA’s Global Climate Change Vital Signs.