Inelastic

Definition

An inelastic collision is a type of collision where a portion of the kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or deformation. Inelastic collisions do not conserve kinetic energy, but momentum is always conserved.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In an inelastic collision, the total kinetic energy after the collision is less than the total kinetic energy before the collision.
2. Momentum is conserved in all types of collisions, including inelastic ones.
3. Perfectly inelastic collisions are a special case where the colliding objects stick together after impact.
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 a surface.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes an inelastic collision from an elastic collision?
• Is kinetic energy conserved in an inelastic collision? Explain why or why not.
• Describe what happens to colliding objects and their velocities during a perfectly inelastic collision.

Related terms

Elastic Collision: A type of collision where both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.

Coefficient of Restitution: A measure of how much kinetic energy remains after a collision, defined as the ratio of relative velocity after to before the impact.

Momentum: $\mathbf{p} = m \mathbf{v}$, where $m$ is mass and $\mathbf{v}$ is velocity; always conserved in isolated systems.