All collisions or two and more objects clashing together can be categorized as elastic or inelastic collisions. This stands true regardless of the items colliding and regardless of the exact circumstance or nature of the collision. Before we delve into the difference between elastic and inelastic collisions, let us quickly understand what they are.
Elastic Collision Defined
When two or more objects collide against one another and the total sum of the kinetic energies of all objects remain the same before and after the collision, it is termed as an elastic collision.
Inelastic Collision Defined
When two or more objects collide against one another and the total sum of the kinetic energies of all objects does not remain the same before and after the collision, it is termed as an inelastic collision.
Difference Between Elastic and Inelastic Collision
When two or more objects collide, they are in motion or at least one object would be in motion. Else, the collision wouldn’t happen. The objects in motion will undergo some change in their path and the speed at which they are moving. The velocities would change and thus the kinetic energy will also change. It is possible that the kinetic energy of each object remains the same. It is also possible that the kinetic energies change but proportionately, as in one suffers a dip and another gains some energy. As long as the total sum of the kinetic energies remains the same, it is an elastic collision.
In inelastic collision, there is a change in the kinetic energy of the objects after they collide. The sum of kinetic energies will most likely reduce. In some cases, it may increase. When there is a loss or gain of energy, it is owing to the conversion of another form of energy. In most cases of inelastic collision, a part of the kinetic energy is converted to some kind of internal energy, which could be heat, may even be light or sound. The conversion of the energy accounts for the loss of kinetic energy.
Elastic collision is rare in macroscopic collisions. When two large objects collide, there is bound to be some loss in kinetic energy owing to conversion of some energy to another form. Inelastic collision is the most common form among large objects. Elastic collision is common at microscopic, atomic or subatomic levels. Collision of atoms of gases is an elastic collision.
