Inelastic collision — Science definition
A collision in which momentum is conserved but some kinetic energy is lost; in a perfectly inelastic collision the objects stick together.
Where it is taught
- Momentum & Collisions — Work, Energy & Momentum, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
In an inelastic collision, momentum is still conserved but some kinetic energy is converted into heat, sound, and permanent deformation.
Momentum & Collisions
Questions using inelastic collision
Problem 1
In a perfectly inelastic collision, which quantity is always conserved?
- Momentum only
- Kinetic energy only
- Both momentum and kinetic energy
- Neither momentum nor kinetic energy
Answer and explanation
Momentum only
Momentum is conserved in every collision with no external force. In an inelastic collision, some kinetic energy is converted to heat, sound, and deformation, so only momentum is conserved.