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Physics: Collision Restitution Relative Speed Tool

Apply the normal coefficient-of-restitution relation to a nonnegative approach speed under an explicitly passive 0..1 restitution model; not a collision impulse solver.

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Description

Apply the normal coefficient-of-restitution relation to a nonnegative approach speed under an explicitly passive 0..1 restitution model; not a collision impulse solver.

A mechanics calculation needs a coordinate frame, sign convention, and consistent force, length, mass, and time units. Vector projections, local balance terms, and ideal motion equations describe particular parts of a physical model. They do not automatically establish all equilibrium conditions or the validity of the model.

Apply the normal coefficient-of-restitution relation to a nonnegative approach speed under an explicitly passive 0..1 restitution model; not a collision impulse solver.

When to use this tool

Use Physics: Collision Restitution Relative Speed when you need this particular projection, balance, frame conversion, or ideal-model component from supplied physical quantities.

How to use the tool and how it works

  1. Enter approachSpeed, restitution. Use the units and conventions below.
  2. Run the tool. Correct any format, range, or cross-field input error before interpreting the output.
  3. Read result. Expand result to inspect the returned fields.

For nonnegative approachSpeed and restitution within zero through one return separationSpeed=approachSpeed*restitution inside result.1

Input fieldMeaning and unitsAccepted input
approachSpeedApproach SpeedRequired. Finite number.
restitutionRestitutionRequired. Finite number.
Output fieldInterpretationReturned shape
resultObject containing the calculated result members described below.Required. Object.
result.separationSpeedSeparation SpeedCalculated result member: number.
json
{
  "input": {
    "approachSpeed": 5,
    "restitution": 0.8
  },
  "output": {
    "result": {
      "separationSpeed": 4
    }
  }
}

Limitations and assumptions

  • Inputs are relative normal speed magnitudes in one unit. This does not calculate individual post-collision velocities, tangential response, contact forces, or energy loss for a full collision.
  • Outputs are nested inside result. Inputs must satisfy both the field types and the cross-field conditions above. Invalid input causes an error; a successful false flag or documented placeholder is a different result.
  • Numeric calculations use binary floating point unless exact decimal-integer arithmetic is explicitly stated. No hidden measurement tolerance or decimal rounding is added; nonfinite or out-of-contract results are rejected. Signed zero is exported as zero.

Alternative or Complementary methods

Use a complete force, motion, or energy model when a single contribution is insufficient. Check coordinate frames, idealizations, and dimensional consistency before combining calculated terms.

References

  1. Calculation and input contract: physics/collision-restitution-relative-speed — tool.io

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