A bullet of mass 50 g is fired into a block of wood of mass 1.5 kg, raising both through a height of 75 cm. What type of collision does this represent?
Understand the Problem
The question describes a scenario where a bullet is fired into a block of wood, and they both rise to a certain height. The question is asking to identify the type of collision that occurs in this scenario. We need to understand the concepts of elastic and inelastic collisions, as well as the conditions for rotational motion.
Answer
Inelastic collision.
The collision described is an inelastic collision because the bullet becomes embedded in the block of wood, and kinetic energy is not conserved.
Answer for screen readers
The collision described is an inelastic collision because the bullet becomes embedded in the block of wood, and kinetic energy is not conserved.
More Information
In an inelastic collision, kinetic energy is not conserved, and some of it is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. A classic example is a bullet embedding itself in a block.
Tips
The key to identifying the type of collision lies in understanding whether kinetic energy is conserved. If the objects stick together, it's a strong indicator of an inelastic collision.
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