In an inelastic collision of two bodies, a change occurs in the A) total energy in the universe. B) total kinetic energy of the colliding bodies. C) momentum in the universe. D) velocity of the center of mass.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In an inelastic collision, the total kinetic energy of the colliding bodies is not conserved due to the transformation of some kinetic energy into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. However, the total momentum of the system and the velocity of the center of mass remain conserved, and the total energy in the universe is conserved but may change forms.

In an inelastic Collision of Two Bodies, a Change Occurs