Coefficient of Restitution
It is defined as the ratio of relative velocity of separation to relative velocity of approach.
Let two particles m1 , m2 be moving with initial velocities u1 , u2 and after collision moving with velocities v1 , v2
e = | v2 – v1 |/| u2– u1 |
It is also defined as the square root of the ratio of final kinetic energy to initial kinetic energy.
e = √(Final KE/Initial KE)
Different values of e for different types of collisions:
- e = 0 : Perfectly inelastic collision
- 0 < e < 1 : Inelastic collision
- e = 1 : Elastic collision
Read more about Elastic Collision Formula.
Inelastic Collision
Inelastic Collision is a type of collision where momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not. In such collisions, the colliding objects stick together, and some kinetic energy is transformed into other forms like vibrational energy or heat. This results in a loss of kinetic energy, which may transform into heat, sound, or deformation.
In this article, we will discuss all details related to inelastic collision such as definition, its types, examples, etc.