1D Collisions: Coefficient of Restitution e

One mass at rest, measured v₁′ and v₂′, e = −(v₂′−v₁′)/v₁.

School· 20 min·Related simulator: Classical Mechanics1D Collisions

Goal

Estimate e from a series of runs.

e = (v2f - v1f) / (v1i) for m2 initially at rest, one-dimensional.

m₂ is at rest; m₁ = 1 kg, m₂ = 2 kg (model). Set incident speed v₁ᵢ and record a run.
Read v₁f and v₂f (with small velocity noise); e = (v₂f − v₁f)/v₁ᵢ is computed in the table.
Take several trials; the mean e should approach the preset restitution.

m₂ at rest; m₁ = 1 kg, m₂ = 2 kg. Set v₁ᵢ, record; e = (v₂f − v₁f)/v₁ᵢ.

e_model = 0.85

v₁ᵢ (m/s)2.0

№	v₁ᵢ (m/s)	v₁f (m/s)	v₂f (m/s)	e
No measurements yet — take your first reading.

Add at least 2 trials to compute the sample mean.

Opens the system print dialog — choose “Save as PDF” or your printer. Header and footer are hidden when printing.

One click opens the print dialog — choose “Save as PDF”.

Generated: 28 May 2026, 02:02

Estimate e from a series of runs.

#	v₁ᵢ (m/s)	v₁f (m/s)	v₂f (m/s)	e
No measurements yet — take your first reading.

Add at least 2 trials to compute the sample mean.

e matches the inelastic preset.

PhysSandbox virtual lab — values come from your session; add your own discussion of error sources.

e matches the inelastic preset.