How to Calculate Kinetic Energy Percentage in Non-Elastic Collision?

In summary, the problem presented involves a projectile with a mass of 0.20 kg being fired at and embedding itself in a target with a mass of 2.50 kg. After the collision, the target (with the projectile) moves off. The question asks for the percentage of the projectile's incident kinetic energy that is carried off by the target. It is stated that energy is conserved and that kinetic energy does not remain the same in an elastic collision. The solution to this problem requires knowledge of equations related to collisions.
  • #1
kbeyer
2
0
Problem: A projectile (mass = 0.20 kg) is fired at and embeds itself in a target (mass = 2.50 kg). The target (with the projectile in it) flies off after being struck. What percentage of the projectiles' incident kinetic energy does the target (with the projectile in it) carry off after being struck?
 
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  • #2
Energy is conserved. Kinetic energy in an elastic collision (where there is no conversion to any other sort of energy) remains the same.
 
  • #3
Welcome to PF, kbeyer.

This is not an elastic collision, so kinetic energy is not conserved.

So, what equation or equations do you know that deal with collisions?

edit added:
please post homework questions in the homework area of the forum:
https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=153
 

1. What is kinetic energy percentage?

Kinetic energy percentage is the portion of an object's total energy that is due to its motion. It is calculated as the object's kinetic energy divided by its total energy.

2. How is kinetic energy percentage different from kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is a measure of an object's energy due to its motion, while kinetic energy percentage is a ratio of the object's kinetic energy to its total energy. Kinetic energy percentage takes into account the object's potential energy as well.

3. What are the units for kinetic energy percentage?

Kinetic energy percentage is a unitless quantity, as it is a ratio of two energies with the same units. However, it can also be expressed as a percentage (out of 100%).

4. How is kinetic energy percentage related to potential energy?

Kinetic energy percentage and potential energy are two components of an object's total energy. As an object loses potential energy, its kinetic energy increases, resulting in a higher kinetic energy percentage. Conversely, as an object gains potential energy, its kinetic energy decreases, resulting in a lower kinetic energy percentage.

5. Can kinetic energy percentage be greater than 100%?

No, kinetic energy percentage cannot be greater than 100%. This is because kinetic energy is always a portion of an object's total energy, and cannot exceed it. If the kinetic energy percentage is calculated to be greater than 100%, it is likely due to an error in calculation.

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