2D Collision Lab
Explore the conservation of momentum and energy in 2D collisions.
Conservation of Momentum
A fundamental law of physics states that for a closed system, the total momentum ($p=mv$) before a collision is equal to the total momentum after. Momentum is a vector, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. No matter how the balls collide, the total momentum of the system will not change unless an external force acts on it.
Elastic vs. Inelastic
- Elastic Collisions (Bounciness = 1.0): Kinetic energy is conserved. Think of billiard balls.
- Inelastic Collisions (Bounciness < 1.0): Kinetic energy is lost to heat, sound, or deformation.
- Perfectly Inelastic (Bounciness = 0.0): The objects stick together after colliding, losing the maximum possible kinetic energy.
- **Listen closely!** You'll hear a "thwack" sound on collisions, with the pitch and loudness changing based on the impact.
Controls
New Ball Properties
System Properties
What's Happening?
The chamber is empty. Use the controls to add some balls.
Live System Status
Total Momentum (X): 0.0
Total Momentum (Y): 0.0
Total Kinetic Energy: 0 J