What is the percent of energy lost in an inelastic collision?

AI Thread Summary
In an inelastic collision, when block 1 collides with block 2 and they stick together, the final kinetic energy must be calculated using the combined mass of both blocks. The formula for percent energy lost is correct: [(K initial - K final)/K(initial)]*100. To find K final, include the mass of block 2 since they move as one mass after the collision. Understanding that the kinetic energy loss pertains to block 1's initial energy compared to the total energy after the collision is crucial. The discussion concludes with the clarification that using the combined mass for K final is essential for accurate calculations.
*best&sweetest*
Messages
36
Reaction score
0
percent of energy lost?

I'm confused... I have a case where block 1 moves with certain velocity, hits block 2 (that is at rest) and sticks to it - inelastic collision. Now, the problem is that I have to find the percent of energy (kinetic) that the first block has lost. I know that the formula is [(K initial - K final)/K(initial)]*100, but wha I'm wandering about is whether K(final) should include the mass of block 2 or not?
They are actually one mass after collision, but the question asks for the lost of energy of block 1. Can you somehow explain this to me? Thank you!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Yeah, calculate the final kinetic energy with the combined mass.
 
Thanks, I got it right!
 
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'
TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'
The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
Back
Top