Conservation of Momentum in Inelastic Collisions

Thread starter kevina
Start date Oct 5, 2007
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Collisions Conservation Conservation of momentum Inelastic Momentum

AI Thread Summary

In inelastic collisions, momentum is conserved, meaning the total momentum before the collision equals the total momentum after the collision. The equation m_1\vec{v}_1 + m_2\vec{v}_2 = (m_1 + m_2)\vec{v}_f illustrates this principle, where m represents mass and v represents velocity. The vector nature of momentum indicates that both magnitude and direction must be considered in the calculations. Participants in the discussion referenced external resources to clarify concepts related to inelastic collisions. Understanding these principles is crucial for analyzing the behavior of colliding objects.

Oct 5, 2007

kevina

Can someone explain to me the vector nature of momentum in a case where two objects collide and stick together?

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Oct 5, 2007

Doc Al

Mentor

How about:
m_1\vec{v}_1 + m_2\vec{v}_2 = (m_1 + m_2)\vec{v}_f

Read this: Inelastic Collisions

Last edited: Oct 5, 2007

Oct 5, 2007

kevina

Yes! I remember seeing that link once before. I was looking for it but couldn't find it. Thanks Doc Al. :)

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