1. What Is Kinetic Energy Lost In Inelastic Collision?

In an inelastic collision, kinetic energy is not conserved. The lost kinetic energy is transformed into other forms of energy such as heat, sound, or deformation energy. This calculator helps determine how much kinetic energy is lost during such collisions.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( \text{KE}_{\text{initial}} \) — Total kinetic energy before collision (Joules)
• \( \text{KE}_{\text{final}} \) — Total kinetic energy after collision (Joules)

Explanation: The difference between initial and final kinetic energy represents the energy converted to other forms during the inelastic collision.

3. Importance Of Calculating Lost Kinetic Energy

Details: Understanding energy loss in collisions is crucial for engineers designing safety systems, physicists studying energy transformations, and in various practical applications like automotive crash testing and sports equipment design.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter both initial and final kinetic energy values in Joules. Ensure values are positive and the initial energy is greater than or equal to the final energy for physically meaningful results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is an inelastic collision?
A: An inelastic collision is one where kinetic energy is not conserved, though momentum is conserved. Objects may stick together or deform during such collisions.

Q2: Can lost kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, in physical systems, lost kinetic energy cannot be negative as final kinetic energy cannot exceed initial kinetic energy in closed systems.

Q3: What happens to the lost kinetic energy?
A: The lost kinetic energy is transformed into other energy forms, typically heat, sound, or energy used to deform the colliding objects.

Q4: How is this different from elastic collisions?
A: In elastic collisions, kinetic energy is conserved (lost KE = 0), while in inelastic collisions, kinetic energy is not conserved.

Q5: What are some real-world examples of inelastic collisions?
A: Car crashes, a ball of clay hitting a wall, two railroad cars coupling together, and most everyday collisions are inelastic to some degree.