Interactive Simulation

Momentum & Energy: Elastic and Inelastic Collisions

Open the activity below and explore the concept visually. Use the category link to return to the broader Conservation collection.

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Description
This is a simulation of a collision in one dimension between two masses initially sliding toward each other on a frictionless surface. Explore conservation of energy and momentum, as well as elasticity and relative velocity. Adjust the initial velocities, masses of the boxes, and elasticity with the sliders. Use the buttons to run, pause, and reset the simulation.