Perfectly inelastic

Definition

A perfectly inelastic collision is a type of collision where the colliding objects stick together after impact, resulting in maximum kinetic energy loss. Momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a perfectly inelastic collision, the colliding bodies stick together post-collision.
2. Momentum is always conserved in perfectly inelastic collisions.
3. Kinetic energy is not conserved; some of it is converted to other forms of energy such as heat or sound.
4. The final velocity of the combined mass can be calculated using momentum conservation equations.
5. Perfectly inelastic collisions represent the extreme case of inelastic collisions with maximum kinetic energy loss.

Review Questions

• What happens to the colliding bodies' velocities after a perfectly inelastic collision?
• Is kinetic energy conserved during a perfectly inelastic collision? Explain why or why not.
• How do you calculate the final velocity of two objects after a perfectly inelastic collision?

Related terms

Elastic Collision:

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

Inelastic Collision:

A type of collision where momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not fully conserved.

Conservation of Momentum:

A principle stating that the total linear momentum of a closed system remains constant through any process.