Law of Restitution
Law of Restitution
Consider two bodies of mass m1 and m2 respectively. Let these bodies be moving with respective velocities u1 and u2 before impact. The impact will take place only if u1 > u2. Thus, velocity of approach is (u1 – u2).
After a short period of contact, the bodies will separate and will start moving with velocities v1 and v2 respectively. The separation will occur only if v2 > v1 and velocity of separation is (v2 – v1).
Newton’s law of collision for elastic bodies states that
When two moving bodies collide with each other, their velocity of separation bears a constant ratio with their velocity of approach.
or v2 – v1=e(u1 – u2)
where e is a constant of proportionality and is known as coefficient of restitution. The coefficient of restitution is a parameter which indicates the energy lost during an impact. The value of e lies between 0 and 1. If e = 0, the impact is inelastic. If e = 1, the impact is perfectly elastic.
Loss of Kinetic Energy During Impact
Consider two bodies of mass m1 and m2 moving with respective velocities u1 and u2 before impact. Let v1 and v2 is their respective velocities after impact, then
Thus, in case of perfectly elastic impact, both the momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.
Dear Aspirants,
Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel.
This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts.
If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media.
MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.
MADE EASY is a well-organized institute, complete in all aspects, and provides quality guidance for both written and personality tests. MADE EASY has produced top-ranked students in ESE, GATE, and various public sector exams. The publishing team regularly writes exam-related blogs based on conversations with the faculty, helping students prepare effectively for their exams.
