Inelastic Collisions: Momentum Conservation & Examples

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SUMMARY

Inelastic collisions conserve momentum but not kinetic energy. A practical example is a car colliding with a garbage can, where both objects move together at the same speed post-collision. While momentum remains constant, some kinetic energy is transformed into other energy forms, such as heat or sound. This distinction is crucial for understanding the dynamics of inelastic collisions in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly momentum and energy.
  • Familiarity with the principles of inelastic collisions.
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy and its transformations.
  • Ability to analyze real-world collision scenarios.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical equations governing momentum conservation in inelastic collisions.
  • Explore examples of inelastic collisions in real-world scenarios, such as vehicle accidents.
  • Learn about the different forms of energy transformation during inelastic collisions.
  • Study the role of friction in collision dynamics and its impact on energy conservation.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of momentum and energy in collision scenarios.

HAMZASHABIR
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I don't understand how momentum is conserved during inelastic collision...please help me out with some relevant and practical examples...thanks
 
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yes , momentum is conserved but energy is not during inelastic collision (if there is no friction in the system )
suppose a car hits a garbage can and then they both continue going on with a same speed ... you can just google search for lots of examples with mathematical explanations
 
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THE HARLEQUIN said:
yes , momentum is conserved but energy is not during inelastic collision (if there is no friction in the system )
suppose a car hits a garbage can and then they both continue going on with a same speed ... you can just google search for lots of examples with mathematical explanations
THE HARLEQUIN said:
yes , momentum is conserved but energy is not during inelastic collision (if there is no friction in the system )
suppose a car hits a garbage can and then they both continue going on with a same speed ... you can just google search for lots of examples with mathematical explanations
thanks
 
THE HARLEQUIN said:
yes , momentum is conserved but energy is not during inelastic collision (if there is no friction in the system )
Both energy and momentum are conserved in any kind of collision. Its just that in inelastic collisions, kinetic energy is not conserved.
 
Shyan said:
Both energy and momentum are conserved in any kind of collision. Its just that in inelastic collisions, kinetic energy is not conserved.
yes .. that's what i meant to say .. it's a part of the kinetic energy that transforms into another form of energy during inelastic collisions ...
 

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