Understanding Elastic and Inelastic Collisions in Ballistic Pendulums

In summary, A person has questions about a ballistic pendulum and whether the collision it makes is elastic. After discussing with their partner, they believe it is elastic since the ball bounced off the rod. However, another person points out that just because something bounces, it doesn't necessarily mean the collision is elastic. The more a bouncy object deforms, the more energy is usually lost.
  • #1
jubbly
22
0
Hey guys, I have some questions about this ballistic pendulum http://image.made-in-china.com/2f1j00nMvTZeBzkLoC/Ballistic-Pendulum.jpg

My partner and me were discussing what kind of collision it made.
I think it's an elastic since we placed a ball in the rod then pulled the metal rod back. Then the ball went into the block and the block hit the rod again and bounced a little. Wouldn't that make it elastic since it bounced off the rod?
 
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  • #2
hey jubbly! :smile:
jubbly said:
… Wouldn't that make it elastic since it bounced off the rod?

nooo :redface: … if a ball bounces off the ground, that usually isn't elastic … same here :wink:

(the more a bouncy things deforms, the more energy tends to be lost)
 

Related to Understanding Elastic and Inelastic Collisions in Ballistic Pendulums

1. How does a ballistic pendulum work?

A ballistic pendulum is a device that measures the speed of a projectile by using the laws of conservation of energy and momentum. When a projectile, such as a bullet, hits a stationary pendulum, it transfers its kinetic energy to the pendulum and causes it to swing. The height of the pendulum's swing can then be used to calculate the projectile's initial velocity.

2. What factors affect the accuracy of a ballistic pendulum?

The accuracy of a ballistic pendulum can be affected by factors such as the weight and velocity of the projectile, the angle at which it hits the pendulum, and any friction or air resistance present. Additionally, the accuracy of the measurements taken and the precision of the equipment used can also impact the results.

3. Can a ballistic pendulum be used to measure the velocity of any projectile?

No, a ballistic pendulum can only accurately measure the velocity of projectiles that are small and fast enough to be stopped by the pendulum. If a projectile is too large or too slow, it may not cause the pendulum to swing enough to obtain an accurate measurement.

4. How can a ballistic pendulum be used to measure the muzzle velocity of a firearm?

To measure the muzzle velocity of a firearm using a ballistic pendulum, the pendulum must be placed in front of the firearm's muzzle. The projectile is then fired into the pendulum, causing it to swing. The height of the pendulum's swing can be measured and used to calculate the muzzle velocity using the appropriate equations.

5. What are the limitations of using a ballistic pendulum to measure projectile velocity?

There are several limitations to using a ballistic pendulum to measure projectile velocity. First, the pendulum can only accurately measure the velocity of projectiles within a certain range of sizes and speeds. Additionally, external factors such as air resistance and friction can affect the accuracy of the results. Finally, the precision of the equipment and measurements taken can also impact the accuracy of the final velocity calculation.

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