Is kinetic energy conserved in an inelastic collision?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether kinetic energy (KE) is conserved during an inelastic collision. Inelastic collisions are characterized by the fact that kinetic energy is not conserved, although momentum is conserved. This question pertains to the principles of physics, specifically mechanics.
Answer
No, kinetic energy is not conserved in an inelastic collision.
Kinetic energy is not conserved in an inelastic collision.
Answer for screen readers
Kinetic energy is not conserved in an inelastic collision.
More Information
In inelastic collisions, kinetic energy is transformed into other forms of energy such as heat, sound, or internal energy due to deformation.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse conservation of kinetic energy with conservation of momentum. Remember, momentum is always conserved in collisions, but kinetic energy is only conserved in elastic collisions.
Sources
- What are elastic and inelastic collisions - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- Why is Kinetic Energy conserved in elastic collisions but not inelastic? - reddit.com
- What is Inelastic Collision? - BYJU'S - byjus.com
