Amount of Kinetic Energy Lost in Inelastic Collision

In summary, when two carts with masses M and velocities V and -3V collide and stick together on a frictionless air track, the kinetic energy lost in the collision is 9mv2 Joules. This is calculated by subtracting the final kinetic energy (mv2) from the initial kinetic energy (10mv2) of the system.
  • #1
addy899
11
0
1. Two carts, each of mass M, travel towards each other on a frictionless air track, one with velocity V, and the other with -3V. They collide and stick together. How much kinetic energy is lost in the collision?

2. P = mv, KE=1/2mv2

3. Initial KE of the system is the sum of the kinetic energies of the two masses.

K1 = (1/2)Mv2, K2 = (1/2)m(-3v)2 = 9mv2

sum: 10mv2

assuming momentum is conserved, velocity of the two masses after the collision is -V.

Then calculate final KE = 1/2(2m)(-V)2 = mv2

subtract this from the initial and I get 9mv2 Joules are lost in the collision.

My key says the answer is 4mv2
 
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  • #2
K1 = (1/2)Mv2, K2 = (1/2)m(-3v)2 = 9mv2

sum: 10mv2

check your arithmetic.
 
  • #3
forgot to divide by 2... goodness. Thanks!
 

FAQ: Amount of Kinetic Energy Lost in Inelastic Collision

What is an inelastic collision?

An inelastic collision is a type of collision where kinetic energy is not conserved. This means that some of the kinetic energy is lost during the collision, typically due to the generation of heat or sound.

What causes kinetic energy to be lost in an inelastic collision?

In an inelastic collision, objects collide and stick together, causing some of the kinetic energy to be converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. This can also occur if there is deformation or damage to the objects involved in the collision.

How is the amount of kinetic energy lost calculated in an inelastic collision?

The amount of kinetic energy lost in an inelastic collision can be calculated by subtracting the final kinetic energy of the objects after the collision from the initial kinetic energy before the collision.

What factors can affect the amount of kinetic energy lost in an inelastic collision?

The amount of kinetic energy lost in an inelastic collision can be affected by several factors, including the mass and velocity of the objects involved, the type of materials they are made of, and any external forces acting on the objects during the collision.

How is an inelastic collision different from an elastic collision?

In an elastic collision, the objects involved bounce off each other and there is no loss of kinetic energy. In an inelastic collision, the objects stick together or deform, causing a loss of kinetic energy. Additionally, in an elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved, while in an inelastic collision only momentum is conserved.

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