Kinetic Energy

Learning Objectives: Define the following terms: kinetic energy, elastic collision, inelastic collision. To be able to distinguish between an elastic and inelastic collision. To be able to show how the fundamental units for kinetic energy ot potential energy are related to the derived units (J) for energy. To solve problems relating to kinetic energy. Give examples of elastic and inelastic collisions in nature.

Key Concepts: In this unit students will increase their abilities to: Kinetic energy is the energy of motion and can be calculated using The unit for kinetic energy is the joule. An elastic collision is one in which there is no change in kinetic energy. An inelastic collision results in some energy being dissipated when colliding objects are in contact. This dissipated energy usually produces heat.