Collisions

What is a collision?

A collision occurs when two or more objects come into contact with each other.

What does the coefficient of restitution describe?

It describes how objects bounce off each other after a collision.

What does the coefficient of restitution (C) formula represent?

C = (Vb - Va) / (Ua - Ub), relating the difference in velocities of two objects before and after a collision.

What does a coefficient of restitution of 1.0 indicate?

It indicates a perfectly elastic collision, where no kinetic energy is lost and objects bounce off fully.

What does a coefficient of restitution of 0.8-0.99 indicate?

It indicates a mostly elastic collision, where some energy is lost but most is conserved.

What does a coefficient of restitution of 0.5-0.79 indicate?

It indicates a partially elastic collision, noticeable energy loss, not all motion is transferred

What does a COR of 0.0 signify?

It signifies a perfectly inelastic collision, where objects stick together after the collision and maximum energy is lost.

What is observed in Newton's Cradle regarding elasticity?

The coefficient of restitution is very close to one, indicating almost perfect elastic collisions with very little energy lost.

What does 'change in momentum' equal?

Change in momentum is equal to the impulse applied to the object.

Which law is the change in momentum based on?

It is based on Newton's second law.