Created By : Naaz Fatima

Reviewed By : Phani Ponnapalli

Last Updated : May 18, 2023


The motion of two colliding bodies is described by the conservation of the momentum calculator. Simply enter the inputs and press the calculate button to obtain the final object velocities in no time.

Choose a Calculation
Final velocity of object-2(v2):
Final velocity of object-1(v1):
Initial velocity of object-2(u2):
Initial velocity of object-1(u1):
Mass of object-2(m2):

Law of Conservation of Momentum Definition

The Conservation of Momentum asserts that the sum of all objects' momentums remains constant for an isolated body. Objects in an isolated system do not interact with anything outside of it. In reality, while one item loses energy, another gains energy.

Consider two automobiles on a frictionless table. One of the cars is travelling at a pace of 2 kilometres per hour when it collides with the second car. After colliding with the second car, the first car slows down and a portion of its momentum is transferred to the second.

Types of Collisions

Collisions can be classified into three categories, which are explained below.

Perfectly Elastic: It's an elastic collision when the system's kinetic energy and momentum are both conserved. Collisions between hard bodies, such as marbles or billiard balls, are an example of this type of collision.

Partially Elastic: Momentum is conserved in this collision, as the objects move at separate speeds. On the other hand, Kinetic energy is not conserved. It will not vanish because a portion of it is used to accomplish tasks. For example, if a car crashes, the metal will be shattered and some kinetic energy will be lost.

Perfectly Inelastic: After an Inelastic Collision, the bodies cling together and move at the same speed. A portion of kinetic energy is lost while momentum is conserved. When a fast-moving bullet collides with a wooden target, it becomes lodged inside the target and moves with it.

How Do You Calculate Two Colliding Objects' Velocities?

To find the velocities of two colliding objects in any type of collision, follow the simple methods outlined below.

  • Step 1: Calculate the masses of the objects and how quickly they are travelling before they collide.
  • Step 2: Determine the final velocities of one of the objects as well.
  • Step 3: Calculate the system's momentum before the collision.
  • Step 4: Substitute the known values and equate them to determine the unknown parameter using the law of conservation of momentum formula m1u1+m2u2 = m1v1+m2v2.

For more concepts check out physicscalculatorpro.com to get quick answers by using this free tool.

How to Use the Conservation of Momentum Calculator?

The following is the procedure how to use the Conservation of Momentum Calculator

  • Step 1: Input the unknown value of the mass of objects, initial velocities, the final velocity of one object and x in the appropriate input fields.
  • Step 2: To acquire the result, click the "Calculate the Unknown" button.
  • Step 3: Finally, the output field will show the final velocity of another object.

FAQs on Conservation of Momentum Calculator

1. What are the conditions under which momentum is conserved?

There should be no net external force operating on the system to conserve momentum. Momentum is not conserved if the net external force is not zero.


2. What is an example of momentum conservation?

When we discharge a bullet from a gun, it recoils. Before the bullet is fired, both the bullet and the pistol are at rest. When a bullet is shot, it moves ahead in its trajectory. The gun goes backwards to conserve the system's entire momentum.


3. What is the functioning principle of a rocket?

The law of conservation of linear momentum governs the operation of a rocket. The rocket's fuel burns to produce hot gas. The hot gas is directed in one direction after being discharged from the exhaust nozzle. To conserve momentum, the rocket moves in the opposite direction.


4. How do you find momentum after an elastic collision?

Multiply the mass of the second item by its velocity. If it weighs 1,000 kilogrammes and moves at a speed of -30 metres per second, its momentum is 30,000 kilogrammes per second. To figure out which way the items will go after colliding, add the two velocities together.