Where Does Thermal Energy Come From in an Inelastic Collision?

AI Thread Summary
In an inelastic collision, thermal energy is generated when kinetic energy is absorbed as the colliding objects stick together. The assumption of a frictionless surface may lead to confusion regarding the presence of thermal energy, but the conversion occurs due to the nature of inelastic collisions. Momentum is not conserved in this scenario because some kinetic energy is transformed into thermal energy, which is characteristic of inelastic interactions. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving related exam problems. The discussion emphasizes the interplay between kinetic energy loss and thermal energy generation in inelastic collisions.
isukatphysics69
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whereisthermalenergy.PNG


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I am going through the final exam problem sets right now and just looked at the answer key and wondering where in this system there could be thermal energy? while i was working through the problem i assumed no thermal energy because of the frictionless floor. where in this system is there thermal energy coming from?
also wondering why momentum was not conserved
 

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isukatphysics69 said:
where in this system is there thermal energy coming from?
also wondering why momentum was not conserved
The two nicely fit together: in the inelastic collision (the blcks stick together) some kietic energy is absorbed and thus converted to thermal energy.

Good luck with your exam...

PS lousy picture to read for a helper, but I don't want to upset you at this time ...
 
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