College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 6 - Linear Momentum and Collisions - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 214: 14

Answer

Yes, all of the kinetic energy can be lost in the collision of two objects. This type of collision is called a completely inelastic collision, in which the colliding objects stick together and move as a single unit after the collision. In this type of collision, the kinetic energy of the system is completely converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or deformation of the objects. In a completely inelastic collision, the colliding objects become deformed or stick together, and their final velocity is the same. Since the final velocity is zero, the final kinetic energy of the system is zero. This means that all of the initial kinetic energy is lost in the collision, and is converted into other forms of energy. The conservation of momentum still holds true in a completely inelastic collision because the total momentum of the system is conserved. The sum of the momenta of the objects before the collision is equal to the sum of the momenta of the objects after the collision. However, the conservation of kinetic energy does not hold true in this type of collision because all of the initial kinetic energy is lost. An example of a completely inelastic collision is the collision of two clay balls. When the two clay balls collide, they stick together and move as a single unit, and their final velocity is zero. All of the initial kinetic energy of the system is lost in this type of collision, and is converted into other forms of energy such as heat and deformation of the clay balls.

Work Step by Step

Inelastic Collison $mv=(m+m)v_{f}$
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