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Classical Mechanics

Completely Inelastic Collision

A collision in which colliding bodies stick together after impact, moving as a single combined mass with maximum kinetic energy loss.

Governing formula m1 v1 + m2 v2 = (m1 + m2) Vf
SI unit kg·m/s, m/s

In depth

Sticking together minimizes final kinetic energy while strictly conserving linear momentum.

Examples in the real world

A clay ball thrown against a wall sticking to it, or a ballistic pendulum capturing a bullet.