Kinetic energy: what percentage has been lost?

In summary, the collision between a particle of mass 4u and a particle of mass 196u is elastic and the moving particle loses a percentage of its original kinetic energy. The equations for momentum and kinetic energy can be set equal to each other, and if the collision is head-on, the problem can be solved. The equation 24Vo^2 + VoVf = 25Vf^2 is helpful in finding the percentage of kinetic energy lost.
  • #1
totentanz777
1
0

Homework Statement


So there's a particle of mass 4u that strikes another particle of mass 196u. The collision is elastic. What percentage of its original kinetic energy has the moving particle lost?



Homework Equations


m1v1o + m2v2o = m1vf + m2v2f
K1o + K2o = K1f + K2f

The Attempt at a Solution


so because its elastic, the kinetic energy total will not change, thus the Kt= Kft.
V2o will be zero, because its not moving. It is possible to set the two equations, one for momentum and the other for Kinetic Energies, equal to each other and cancel out v2f. This helps reduce the problem to
24Vo^2 + VoVf = 25Vf^2
how would having this equation help me find the percentages? Am I on the right track at all?
 
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  • #2
totentanz777 said:

Homework Statement


So there's a particle of mass 4u that strikes another particle of mass 196u. The collision is elastic. What percentage of its original kinetic energy has the moving particle lost?

Homework Equations


m1v1o + m2v2o = m1vf + m2v2f
K1o + K2o = K1f + K2f

The Attempt at a Solution


so because its elastic, the kinetic energy total will not change, thus the Kt= Kft.
V2o will be zero, because its not moving. It is possible to set the two equations, one for momentum and the other for Kinetic Energies, equal to each other and cancel out v2f. This helps reduce the problem to
24Vo^2 + VoVf = 25Vf^2
how would having this equation help me find the percentages? Am I on the right track at all?
If the collision is head-on, then yes, the problem can be solved.

What is K1F/K10 ?
 

Related to Kinetic energy: what percentage has been lost?

1. What is kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. It is a form of energy that can be transferred between objects and converted into other forms.

2. How is kinetic energy calculated?

Kinetic energy is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 * m * v^2, where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity.

3. What factors affect the loss of kinetic energy?

The main factor that affects the loss of kinetic energy is the presence of external forces, such as friction or air resistance. These forces can slow down the object's motion and cause a loss of kinetic energy.

4. How does the percentage of kinetic energy lost affect the object's motion?

The percentage of kinetic energy lost can significantly affect the object's motion. The more kinetic energy that is lost, the slower the object's motion will be. This can result in a decrease in speed and distance traveled.

5. How can the loss of kinetic energy be minimized?

The loss of kinetic energy can be minimized by reducing the effects of external forces, such as by using smoother surfaces or lubrication to reduce friction, or by streamlining an object to reduce air resistance. Additionally, using objects with higher mass and velocity can also help to minimize the loss of kinetic energy.

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