Coefficient of Restitution

e = \frac{v _{2}^{'} - v _{1}^{'}}{v _{1} - v _{2}}

Ratio of relative speeds after and before collision. e=1 for elastic, e=0 for perfectly inelastic.

Variables

Coefficient of restitution

Measure of elasticity (0 to 1)

unitless

v₂'

Final velocity of object 2

After collision

m/s

v₁'

Final velocity of object 1

After collision

m/s

v₁

Initial velocity of object 1

Before collision

m/s

v₂

Initial velocity of object 2

Before collision

m/s

e = (relative speed of separation)/(relative speed of approach). Measures energy loss in collision.

0/5000