When to use this calculator
Find shared velocity after two masses stick together in an ideal collision. Models a perfectly inelastic one-dimensional collision with negligible external impulse.
Explore the force, energy & machines calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Force Calculator: Calculate net force using mass and acceleration.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Collision Common Velocity: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| First mass (kg) | 2 |
| First velocity (m/s) | 10 |
| Second mass (kg) | 3 |
| Second velocity (m/s) | 0 |
| Result | 4 m/s |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Common velocity = (m₁u₁+m₂u₂)/(m₁+m₂).
- The result is 4 m/s, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Models a perfectly inelastic one-dimensional collision with negligible external impulse.
Distinguish net force from individual forces and specify the direction of displacement. Work can be negative. Force multiplication does not create extra energy because motion distance and losses also matter.
Frequently asked questions
Is mechanical advantage the same as efficiency?
No. Mechanical advantage compares forces; efficiency compares useful output energy or power with the corresponding input.
When is the collision common velocity calculator useful?
Find shared velocity after two masses stick together in an ideal collision. Models a perfectly inelastic one-dimensional collision with negligible external impulse.
How do I use the collision common velocity calculator?
Enter first mass (kg), first velocity (m/s), second mass (kg), second velocity (m/s). The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Common velocity = (m₁u₁+m₂u₂)/(m₁+m₂).
What should I check before using the result?
Models a perfectly inelastic one-dimensional collision with negligible external impulse.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
Further reading
For background on this topic, see OpenStax: work and energy ↗. This is a topic reference, not an external review or endorsement of this tool.
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