Differentiate Between Elastic and Inelastic Collision
Differentiate between elastic and inelastic collision — this is a fundamental topic in Physics that helps students understand how collisions differ depending on conservation of kinetic energy and momentum.
What is Elastic Collision?
In an elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy of the system are conserved. After collision, the objects rebound without lasting deformation or generation of heat.
What is Inelastic Collision?
In an inelastic collision, momentum is conserved but kinetic energy is not conserved. Some kinetic energy is transformed into internal energy, heat, sound or deformation.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Elastic Collision | Inelastic Collision |
|---|---|
| Momentum conserved | Momentum conserved |
| Kinetic energy conserved | Kinetic energy not conserved |
| No permanent deformation or heat/sound | Deformation, heat or sound may occur |
Note: Even in inelastic collision, momentum always remains conserved — but kinetic energy may be lost due to transformation into other forms.
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Read More About Collisions in Physics (DoFollow)
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