Coefficient of Restitution Calculator
Compute the coefficient of restitution e and kinetic-energy loss in a collision.
Input Data
Mass1Kg
kg
Mass2Kg
kg
Initial Velocity1Ms
m/s
Initial Velocity2Ms
m/s
Final Velocity1Ms
m/s
Final Velocity2Ms
m/s
Results
e = |v₂'−v₁'|/|v₁−v₂|.
1
Before collision.
8J
After collision.
8J
Lost KE.
0J
At a glance:e = |v₂'−v₁'|/|v₁−v₂|; e=1 perfectly elastic, e=0 perfectly inelastic. Complements elastic-collision and inelastic-collision.
Formula
e = |v₂' − v₁'| / |v₁ − v₂|.
$$e = \frac{v_2' - v_1'}{u_1 - u_2}, \quad \Delta KE = \frac{1}{2}m_1 u_1^2 + \frac{1}{2}m_2 u_2^2 - \frac{1}{2}m_1 v_1'^2 - \frac{1}{2}m_2 v_2'^2$$How to Use
- Enter masses and initial/final velocities.
- The tool returns e and KE loss.
Case Studies
v₁=5→0, v₂=0→5 (equal m)
e = 1 (elastic).
FAQ
e=1?
Perfectly elastic — no kinetic energy lost.
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References
Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.