Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]PhysicsCentre of Mass, Linear momentum, Collision
During an elastic collision,
Options
- Athe kinetic energy remains constant throughout
- Bthe initial kinetic energy equals the final kinetic energy
- Cthe final kinetic energy is less than the initial kinetic energy
- Dthe kinetic energy first increases and then decreases
Correct answer
B. the initial kinetic energy equals the final kinetic energy
Step-by-step solution
During an elastic collision, when the colliding bodies come into contact, they undergo temporary deformation. During this deformation phase, a portion of the system's kinetic energy is converted into elastic potential energy. As a result, the kinetic energy of the system decreases temporarily. As the bodies regain their original shapes, the stored elastic potential energy is completely converted back into kinetic energy. Thus, the kinetic energy does not remain constant throughout the collision process; it first de