Define momentum.
Momentum is the product of an object's mass and velocity: p = mv. It is a vector quantity.
What is an elastic collision?
A collision where both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.
What is an inelastic collision?
A collision where momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not. Some KE is converted to other forms of energy.
Define 'conservation of momentum'.
If the net external force on a system is zero, the total momentum of the system remains constant: p*initial* = p*final*
What is kinetic energy (KE)?
The energy an object possesses due to its motion. KE = 1/2 * mv^2
What happens if the net external force on a system is zero during a collision?
The total momentum of the system is conserved.
What is the effect of kinetic energy not being conserved in a collision?
The collision is inelastic, and some kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy like heat, sound, or deformation.
What happens when two objects stick together after a collision?
The collision is inelastic, and they move with a common final velocity.
What is the effect of increasing the mass of an object on its momentum if velocity remains constant?
The momentum of the object increases proportionally (p = mv).
What is the effect of increasing the velocity of an object on its kinetic energy if mass remains constant?
The kinetic energy of the object increases by the square of the velocity (KE = 1/2mv^2).
What are the steps to solving elastic collision problems?
1. Identify the collision as elastic. 2. Apply conservation of momentum and kinetic energy equations. 3. Solve the equations simultaneously for the unknowns.
What are the steps to solving inelastic collision problems?
1. Identify the collision as inelastic. 2. Apply conservation of momentum equation. 3. Solve for the unknown final velocity.
How do you analyze 2D collisions?
Analyze momentum in x and y directions separately. Use vector components.
What is the first step to classify a collision problem?
Calculate the initial and final kinetic energy. If they are equal, the collision is elastic. If not, it is inelastic.
What is the process of calculating the final velocity of two objects after an inelastic collision where they stick together?
1. Use the conservation of momentum equation: $m_1v_{1i} + m_2v_{2i} = (m_1 + m_2)v_f$. 2. Substitute the initial velocities and masses of the objects. 3. Solve for the final velocity, $v_f$.
