Finding Kinetic Energy Loss in Equal Mass Collisions

[dorian_stokes]

Homework Statement

How do you find the kinetic energy lossed when you have equal masses in a collision problem?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[rock.freak667]

Maybe you should find the kinetic energy before and after collision.

 

[tomcue]

To find the kinetic energy loss in equal mass collisions, you can use the equation:

KE loss = 1/2 * m * (v2^2 - v1^2)

Where m is the mass of the objects colliding, v2 is the final velocity after the collision, and v1 is the initial velocity before the collision.

This equation uses the principle of conservation of momentum, which states that in a closed system, the total momentum before a collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision. This means that the sum of the masses multiplied by their velocities is the same before and after the collision.

By using this equation, you can calculate the kinetic energy loss, which represents the energy that is converted into other forms, such as heat or sound, during the collision. This can be a useful tool in analyzing and understanding the dynamics of a collision and can also help in designing safer and more efficient systems.