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

AI Thread Summary
In a non-elastic collision, such as a projectile embedding itself in a target, kinetic energy is not conserved. To calculate the percentage of the projectile's kinetic energy carried off by the combined mass after the collision, one must use the principles of momentum conservation and the kinetic energy formula. The discussion emphasizes the importance of identifying the type of collision to apply the correct equations. Participants are reminded to post homework questions in the designated forum area. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving problems related to collisions in physics.
kbeyer
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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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Energy is conserved. Kinetic energy in an elastic collision (where there is no conversion to any other sort of energy) remains the same.
 
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
 
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