Calculate Kinetic Energy in Elastic and Non-Elastic Collisions

In summary, the conversation discusses a collision between two spheres, with one sphere having a speed of 0 and both spheres having the same mass. After the collision, the first sphere has a speed of 0.6 m/s and the second has a speed of 1.1 m/s. The question is how much kinetic energy is transformed into heat. The solution is derived using the formula for kinetic energy and it is determined that if the collision is elastic, there is no transfer of heat. However, if the collision is inelastic, the amount of heat transferred would be 0.2 J. The professor may have meant to write "nonelastic" instead of "elastic" in the question.
  • #1
EPhoenix
7
0
NONElastic Collision

Homework Statement



One sphere collides with other sphere that has speed of u2 = 0... Both spheres have same mass (m1 = m2 = 0.3 kg)... After collision first sphere has speed of v1 = 0.6 m/s, second sphere v2 = 1.1 m/s ... How much of kinetic energy has been transformed into heat

Homework Equations



Ek= (m1 * u1 ^2) / 2

m1u1 + m2u2 = m1v1 + m2v2


The Attempt at a Solution



from second formula i got u1 = 1.7 m/s

and after doing Ek = Ek1 + Ek2 + heat,

heat = Ek - Ek1 + Ek2
heat = 0.2 J



Can anybody confirm this...7
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
EPhoenix said:

Homework Statement



How much of kinetic energy has been transformed into heat

If the collision is elastic, as you say in the title, you don't need any more data to answer this question.
 
  • #3
yeah i know... elastic collision do not transfer heat and stuff...

so it will be 0

BUT proffesor told my GF (she took that exam) that there is solution and it's not 0

dunno how, but I guess then he meant nonelastic but wrote elastic...
 
  • #4
Here... I will edit it...
 
  • #5
Well if the collision is inelastic, I get the same answer as you do, to 2 sig fig. As long as it isn't a trick question!
 
  • #6
If it was for me, i wouldn't ask here... but this is girls be or not be exam...

Any more thoughts?
 

Related to Calculate Kinetic Energy in Elastic and Non-Elastic Collisions

1. What is the formula for calculating kinetic energy in elastic collisions?

The formula for calculating kinetic energy in elastic collisions is KE = 1/2mv2, where KE is kinetic energy, m is the mass of the object, and v is its velocity.

2. Can kinetic energy be conserved in non-elastic collisions?

No, kinetic energy is not conserved in non-elastic collisions. Some of the kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound.

3. How does the mass of the object affect the kinetic energy in a collision?

The mass of the object directly affects the kinetic energy in a collision. The larger the mass, the greater the kinetic energy will be.

4. Is the kinetic energy the same before and after an elastic collision?

Yes, in an elastic collision, the kinetic energy is conserved and remains the same before and after the collision.

5. Can the kinetic energy of an object be negative in a collision?

No, kinetic energy cannot be negative. It is always a positive value, as it is a measure of an object's motion and velocity.

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