Inelastic collision

Definition

An inelastic collision is a type of collision where the colliding objects stick together or deform, resulting in a loss of kinetic energy. However, the total momentum of the system is conserved.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In inelastic collisions, kinetic energy is not conserved due to deformation or heat generation.
2. Total momentum before and after an inelastic collision remains constant.
3. In perfectly inelastic collisions, the colliding bodies stick together and move with a common velocity post-collision.
4. The coefficient of restitution for a perfectly inelastic collision is zero.
5. Real-world examples of inelastic collisions include car crashes and clay sticking to surfaces.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes an inelastic collision from an elastic collision?
• How does momentum behave in an inelastic collision?
• What happens to kinetic energy during a perfectly inelastic collision?

Related terms

Elastic Collision: A type of collision where both kinetic energy and momentum are conserved, and the objects rebound without lasting deformation.

Coefficient of Restitution: A measure that describes how much kinetic energy remains after a collision; ranges from 0 (perfectly inelastic) to 1 (perfectly elastic).

Momentum: $\mathbf{p} = m\mathbf{v}$, where $\mathbf{p}$ is momentum, $m$ is mass, and $\mathbf{v}$ is velocity; conserved quantity in all types of collisions.