Conservation of Momentum Calculator
Calculate the conservation of momentum in collisions
Collision Parameters
Enter object properties and collision type to calculate outcomes
Object 1
Object 2
Collision Results
Enter parameters and clickCalculateto see results.
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How to Use This Calculator
Step-by-step guide to get accurate results
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Conservation of Momentum Calculator: What It Is and How to Use It
A Conservation of Momentum Calculator is a free online physics tool that helps you calculate final velocities or unknown momentum values in collisions. Using the law of conservation of momentum, it provides fast, accurate results without needing to do complex calculations by hand.
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How to Use the Calculator
Open the Calculator
Access it directly in your browser.
Enter Masses
Input the masses of the colliding objects (m₁ and m₂).
Enter Initial Velocities
Add the velocities before collision (u₁ and u₂).
Select Collision Type
Choose elastic, inelastic, or generic if available.
Enter Known Final Velocity
Leave the unknown variable blank; the calculator will solve for it.
Click Calculate
Instantly see final velocities or the unknown momentum.
Check Units
Make sure all units match the system you are using.
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Key Features
Instant Results
Get calculations immediately without manual formulas.
Multiple Outputs
Compute final velocities, total momentum, or unknown variables.
Mobile-Friendly
Works on phones, tablets, and desktops.
Free & Easy to Use
No downloads or registration required.
Educational
Helps understand momentum and collision concepts clearly.
Supports Metric & Imperial Units
Flexible for users worldwide.
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Who Can Benefit
Students & Teachers
Solve homework, verify classroom problems, or demonstrate concepts.
Physics Enthusiasts
Experiment with different mass and velocity combinations.
Hobbyists & Game Designers
Simulate realistic collisions for animations or games.
Scenario Analysis
Compare multiple setups to see how momentum is conserved.
Educational Demonstrations
Illustrate the law of momentum conservation clearly.
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Example Calculations
Example 1 – Elastic Collision
Mass m₁: 2 kg | Velocity u₁: 5 m/s | Mass m₂: 3 kg | Velocity u₂: -2 m/s | Final Velocities: v₁ = -1 m/s, v₂ = 4 m/s
Example 2 – Inelastic Collision
Mass m₁: 4 kg | Velocity u₁: 3 m/s | Mass m₂: 2 kg | Velocity u₂: 1 m/s | Final Combined Velocity: 2.33 m/s
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Conservation of Momentum Calculator?
It calculates final velocities or unknown momentum values in collisions using the law of momentum conservation.
Is this calculator free?
Yes, it is completely free to use online.
Do I need software or installation?
No, it runs directly in your browser.
Can I use it on mobile devices?
Yes, it’s fully mobile-friendly.
What inputs are required?
Masses, initial velocities, collision type, and optionally one final velocity.
Which physics principles are used?
It relies on the law of conservation of momentum for isolated systems.
Is it suitable for students?
Yes, it’s ideal for learning, homework, and exams.
Can it handle different collision types?
Yes, elastic, inelastic, and generic collisions are supported.
Can it handle different units?
Yes, both metric and imperial units are supported.
How accurate is it?
It provides approximate results for ideal situations; real-world collisions may vary due to energy loss, friction, or external forces.
Understanding Collision Physics
Conservation Laws
All collisions conserve momentum: $$m_1u_1 + m_2u_2 = m_1v_1 + m_2v_2$$
Elastic collisions also conserve kinetic energy, while inelastic collisions convert some kinetic energy to other forms.
Collision Types
- Elastic:Both momentum and kinetic energy conserved (e = 1)
- Perfectly Inelastic:Objects stick together after collision (e = 0)
- With Restitution:Coefficient e determines energy loss (0 ≤ e ≤ 1)
- General:Solve for unknowns using momentum conservation
Example Calculation
Given:m₁ = 2 kg, u₁ = 4 m/s, m₂ = 3 kg, u₂ = 0 m/s, Elastic collision
Solution:
v₁ = ((2-3)×4 + 2×3×0)/(2+3) = -4/5 = -0.4 m/s
v₂ = ((3-2)×0 + 2×2×4)/(2+3) = 16/5 = 3.2 m/s
Initial KE = ½×2×4² = 16 J
Final KE = ½×2×(-0.4)² + ½×3×(3.2)² = 16 J ✓