Momentum Collision Calculator
Enter both object masses and signed velocities, then choose a collision model.
One-dimensional isolated-system model. Signs set direction. Results are not a crash-safety prediction.
Collision result
A QUICK WALKTHROUGH
How to use this tool
- Enter positive masses and velocities; the sign indicates direction.
- Choose elastic, perfectly inelastic, or enter a measured coefficient of restitution.
- Compare final velocities, total momentum, and kinetic energy lost.
One-dimensional isolated system
The model conserves linear momentum along one axis. Elastic collisions use restitution 1; perfectly inelastic collisions use restitution 0; intermediate measured values use a coefficient from 0 to 1.
Kinetic energy
The calculator reports initial and final translational kinetic energy and their difference. Some kinetic energy becomes heat, sound, or deformation when restitution is below 1. The result is an idealized one-dimensional model, not a crash-safety prediction.
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
Which direction should I use?
Choose one axis. Enter velocities toward one direction as positive and the opposite direction as negative.
Can the calculator find the restitution coefficient?
No. For a real collision, restitution is an input measured from the relative velocities; the tool does not infer it from unrelated collision details.