Inelastic and elastic collisions are two types of collisions that can occur between particles. Inelastic collisions involve the transfer of energy between the colliding particles, while elastic collisions do not. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between inelastic and elastic collisions, and provide examples to help illustrate these concepts. We will also explore how inelastic and elastic collisions are used in everyday life.
What is Inelastic Collision?
In an inelastic collision, the kinetic energy of the system is not conserved. In an elastic collision, kinetic energy is conserved. Inelastic collisions are often characterized by a single “bounce.” Elastic collisions are often characterized by a linear rebound following impact. In both cases, momentum is conserved. In an inelastic collision, total kinetic energy is not conserved because some of the kinetic energy has been converted to another form such as heat or sound. In an elastic collision, there is no net conversion of kinetic energy to any other form. The total kinetic energy before the collision is equal to the total kinetic energy after the collision. In both cases, momentum is always conserved because there are no external forces acting on the system.
What is Elastic Collision?
Elastic collisions are defined as collisions in which both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. In an elastic collision, there is no net conversion of kinetic energy into other forms of energy. Elastic collisions occur between similar particles, such as atoms or molecules. In addition, they can occur between macroscopic objects, such as billiard balls. Elastic collisions are contrasted with inelastic collisions, in which momentum is conserved but kinetic energy is not. Elastic collisions are also reversible; that is, the initial and final states of the colliding objects can be interchanged. Because elastic collisions do not result in a loss of kinetic energy, they can be considered to be perfectly efficient.
Difference between Inelastic and Elastic Collisions
- Inelastic collisions are collisions in which the colliding objects stick together after the collision. In an elastic collision, the colliding objects bounce away from each other after the collision. Inelastic collisions are characterized by a loss of kinetic energy, while elastic collisions are characterized by a conservation of kinetic energy. In general, elastic collisions are more common than inelastic collisions. However, there are some situations in which an inelastic collision is more likely to occur.
- For example, when two objects collide at very high speeds, they may be welded together by the force of the collision. Additionally, when two objects of unequal mass collide, the lighter object is more likely to undergo an inelastic collision with the heavier object. In contrast, when two objects of equal mass collide, they are more likely to experience an elastic collision.
- Elasticated materials like rubber can also help to create elastic collisions. In summary, inelastic collisions are characterized by a loss of kinetic energy while elastic collisions are characterized by a conservation of kinetic energy. In general, elastic collisions are more common than inelastic collisions, but there are some situations in which an inelastic collision is more likely to occur.
Conclusion
Inelastic and elastic collisions are two different types of collisions. An inelastic collision is when the colliding objects stick together after the collision, while an elastic collision is when the objects bounce off each other. In general, inelastic collisions are more common than elastic collisions. However, elastic collisions tend to have more energy transferred between the objects than inelastic collisions. Collisions can be described as either inelastic or elastic depending on what happens to the momentum of the objects involved.
