Inelastic collision problem - What is the velocity?

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SUMMARY

In a perfectly inelastic collision involving two equal masses traveling in opposite directions at equal speeds, the resulting velocity after the collision is zero. This conclusion is drawn from the principle of conservation of momentum, where equal and opposite momenta cancel each other out. The discussion also distinguishes between perfectly elastic collisions, where kinetic energy is conserved, and inelastic collisions, where some energy is lost, typically to heat. The participant seeks clarification on the concept of collisions that are neither perfectly elastic nor perfectly inelastic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of momentum conservation (p=mv)
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy equations (k=0.5mv^2)
  • Knowledge of collision types: perfectly elastic and perfectly inelastic
  • Basic grasp of Newton's laws of motion (f=ma)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between elastic and inelastic collisions in detail
  • Study the concept of momentum and energy conservation in collisions
  • Learn about partially elastic collisions and their characteristics
  • Explore real-world applications of collision theory in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focused on mechanics and collision theory, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to momentum and energy in collisions.

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Homework Statement


2 equal masses travel in opposite directions at equal speeds. They collide in a perfectly (inelastic) collision. Just after the collision their velocities are:
A)Zero
B)equal to their original velocities
C)equal in magnitude but opposite in direction of their original velocities
D)less in magnitude and in the same direction as their original velocities
E)less in magnitude and opposite in direction as their original velocities

Homework Equations


p=mv
f=ma
k=.5mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I believe that the answer is zero, because if they collide with equal mass, and equal velocity, which means they have the same momentum, then they must stop each other, an inelastic collision is where they stick to each other, so then it must be zero.

I have 2 other questions just like this, expect one asks about a "perfectly elastic colllison" and another about a "collision that is between elastic and inelastic" ( i have no idea what that means..).

An elastic collision is a "perfect scenario collision", so they must hit each other and bounce back at the same speed...so it would be B for that one?

Thanks for taking time to read this long post, and please inform me if my logic isn't right..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1, Correct
Perfectly elastic means no energy is lost.
Inelastic collision doesn't necessarily mean they stick - it means that energy is lost (eg to heat)
 
Well, it says "perfect inelastic collision" so I am assuming they stick,thats what my books says.
So, then for the inelastic collision the answer is A, but for elastic collisions the answer is B?
Does anyone know what the "collision between elastic and inelastic" means and can help me figure it out?
 

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