Internal kinetic energy

Definition

Internal kinetic energy is the sum of the kinetic energies of all particles within a system. It plays a crucial role in understanding how energy is distributed and conserved during elastic collisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The internal kinetic energy remains constant in an elastic collision.
2. It is calculated by summing the kinetic energies of all individual particles in the system.
3. In elastic collisions, both momentum and internal kinetic energy are conserved.
4. This concept helps explain why objects bounce off each other without losing speed in perfectly elastic collisions.
5. Internal kinetic energy does not account for potential energy or external forces acting on the system.

Review Questions

Related terms

Elastic Collision:

A type of collision where both momentum and internal kinetic energy are conserved.

Linear Momentum:

The product of an object's mass and its velocity, representing the quantity of motion it possesses.

Conservation Laws:

Principles stating that certain properties (such as linear momentum and internal kinetic energy) remain constant within a closed system during interactions.