An elastic collision is a state where there is no net loss in kinetic energy in the system as a result of the collision. An inelastic collision is a state where there is a loss of kinetic energy as a result of the collision. In an inelastic collision, the loss of kinetic energy is transformed into thermal energy, sound energy, and material deformation. You can check out the difference between elastic and inelastic collision in this article below.
Difference between elastic and inelastic collisions
- The total kinetic energy is conserved in elastic collisions. The total kinetic energy of bodies at the beginning of the collision is different in inelastic collisions.
- The momentum does not change in elastic collisions as well as inelastic collisions.
- No conversion of energy takes place in elastic collisions. The kinetic energy is changed into other energy such as sound or heat energy in case of inelastic collisions.
- An elastic collision is highly unlikely in the real world as there is almost always a change in energy. An inelastic collision is a normal form of collision in the real world.
- The particles in a perfectly inelastic collision stick together after the collision, whereas the particles in an inelastic collision do not stick together and move individually.
- Examples of elastic collisions: Swinging balls OR Spacecraft flying near a planet but not affected by its gravity. Examples of inelastic collisions: Collisions of two cars OR A bat striking a baseball.
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