Energy Lost during elastic collision.

In summary, for a completely elastic collision of two isolated masses, the energy lost is ½μνr2, where μ is the reduced mass of the system and νr is the magnitude of relative velocity between the two particles. However, the answer key is incorrect as this statement is only true for an inelastic collision in which the masses stick together.
  • #1
orientor

Homework Statement

.

True or False:[/B]
For a completely elastic collision of two isolated masses the energy lost is
½μνr2
Where μ is the reduced mass of the system and νr is the magnitude of relative velocity between the two particles.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Elastic collision is defined as collision in which no energy is lost. So the answer should be false. But the answer in the answer key is true. So what is the error?
 
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  • #2
The error is in the answer key. The statement is True for an inelastic collision in which the masses stick together.
 
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  • #3
Thanks.
 

What is elastic collision?

Elastic collision is a type of collision between two objects in which both kinetic energy and momentum are conserved. This means that the total energy and momentum before the collision is equal to the total energy and momentum after the collision.

What is the difference between elastic and inelastic collision?

In elastic collision, both kinetic energy and momentum are conserved, while in inelastic collision, only momentum is conserved. This means that inelastic collisions result in a loss of kinetic energy, while elastic collisions do not.

What causes energy loss during elastic collision?

Energy loss during elastic collision is due to the conversion of kinetic energy into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. This is often caused by deformation or breaking of the objects involved in the collision.

How is the amount of energy lost during elastic collision calculated?

The amount of energy lost during elastic collision can be calculated using the coefficient of restitution, which is a measure of the elasticity of the objects involved. This value is typically between 0 and 1, with 1 representing a perfectly elastic collision and 0 representing a completely inelastic collision.

Can energy be gained during elastic collision?

No, energy cannot be gained during elastic collision. Energy can only be conserved or lost, but never gained. In elastic collisions, the total energy before and after the collision remains the same, but some of the initial kinetic energy may be converted into other forms of energy.

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