Collision: Momentum, Kinetic Energy & Potential Energy

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    Collision Energy
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between momentum, kinetic energy, and potential energy during collisions. It is established that potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy as an object descends from a height, such as a ball rolling down an inclined surface. Before the collision, the kinetic energy is at its maximum while potential energy is effectively zero. The transformation of energy types is crucial to understanding the dynamics of collisions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as momentum and energy.
  • Familiarity with the principles of kinetic and potential energy.
  • Knowledge of energy transformation during motion.
  • Basic grasp of collision mechanics in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of energy conservation in physics.
  • Explore the mathematical derivation of kinetic and potential energy transformations.
  • Learn about different types of collisions (elastic vs. inelastic).
  • Investigate real-world applications of momentum and energy conservation in sports or engineering.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of collisions and energy transformations.

astro2cosmos
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in collision we all talk about only momentum and energy. but which form of energy only kinetic no sign of potential energy.why??
suppose a ball is rolled from top of a inclined surface at height L from ground and hit another ball placed at bottom of inclined surface, there occurs a collision b/w these balls. so how the potential energy is implemented in this event?
 
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In your example the potential energy has been transformed to kinetic energy before the collision takes place.
 
remember whenever a body starts motion, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy.
At the point before the collision, the kinetic energy of the body is maximum while the potential energy is said to be zero. So, no potential energy can be implemented.
You can start considering potential energy when the ball starts to come into rest, and its motion is somehow decreased.
 
Ali Inam's response is exactly correct, however, it would probably be helpful for you (astro2cosmos) to work through the derivation including the terms you think are missing and see what happens. This is the only way you'll ever be convinced that they don't matter.
 

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