Is velocity conserved in elastic and inelastic collisions?

AI Thread Summary
Velocity is not conserved in inelastic collisions, as some kinetic energy is lost during the interaction. In elastic collisions, the data indicates mixed results, with some instances showing conservation of velocity while others do not. The conservation of momentum and kinetic energy in elastic collisions suggests that velocity should be conserved, but experimental data may vary based on specific conditions. Analyzing the differences in experimental setups could help clarify the inconsistencies observed. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurately determining the conservation of velocity in both types of collisions.
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Homework Statement



Determine whether velocity is conserved in elastic and inelastic collisions? Use your experimental data to support your results.

Homework Equations



I have my data charts which show that velocity is not conserved in inelastic collisions, but in elastic collisions some parts of my data showed velocity was conserved and other parts showed that it was not.

The Attempt at a Solution


My thoughts are that velocity is not conserved in inelastic collisions due to some velocity being lost in the kinetic energy. However, I am thinking that in elastic collisions velocity is conserved due to the fact that both momentum and kinetic energy are also conserved. Would this be correct?
 
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I am thinking that in elastic collisions velocity is conserved due to the fact that both momentum and kinetic energy are also conserved. Would this be correct?
You seem to have answered this questions already:
in elastic collisions some parts of my data showed velocity was conserved and other parts showed that it was not.
That conclusion would not be consistent with your data. What does your data tell you?

What is different about the situations that could lead to the differing results?
 

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