Is Momentum and Kinetic Energy Conserved in Collisions?

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    Collisions Lab
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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the conservation of momentum and kinetic energy during different types of collisions: elastic, super elastic, and inelastic. It is established that both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved in elastic and super elastic collisions, while kinetic energy is not conserved in inelastic collisions. Participants emphasize the importance of accurate measurements, noting that the final momentum-to-initial momentum (Pf/Pi) ratio should be close to 1 in elastic scenarios. Clarification on experimental data is also sought to ensure correct interpretation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Familiarity with momentum and kinetic energy concepts
  • Basic knowledge of physics lab experiments
  • Ability to analyze experimental data
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  • Review the principles of conservation of momentum in collisions
  • Study the differences between elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Learn how to calculate kinetic energy before and after collisions
  • Explore experimental design for physics labs focusing on collision types
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of momentum and energy conservation in collision scenarios.

Habibrobert
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Hello,

I am stuck on the last page of my physics post lab. The lab was on elastic, super elastic and inelastic collisions. The point of the lab is to see whether or not momentum and kinetic energy is conserved during each scenario.

I'm pretty sure that in the elastic and super elastic collisions momentum and kinetic energy is conserved.

I know that kinetic energy is not conserved in a inelastic collision.

Could someone please check my work and let me know if I am doing everything correct?

Many Thanks
 

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Your numbers look really strange. Judging from the questions, you should have no numbers much above 1, and the Pf/Pi ratio should be close to 1. Maybe I misguess what these numbers represent. How about describing the experiment?
 

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