Shocklike dynamics of inelastic gases

We provide a simple physical picture which suggests that the asymptotic dyn amics of inelastic gases in one dimension is independent of the degree of i nelasticity. Statistical characteristics, including velocity fluctuations a nd the velocity distribution, are identical to those of a perfectly inelast ic sticky gas, which in turn is described by the inviscid Burgers equation. Asymptotic predictions of this continuum theory, including the t(-2/3) tem perature decay and the development of discontinuities in the velocity profi le, are verified numerically for inelastic gases.