inelastic collision

physics

Also known as: inelastic impact, plastic collision, plastic impact(Show More)

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

An inelastic collision in physics is one where some of the kinetic energy of the colliding objects is transformed into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. This is in contrast to an elastic collision, where kinetic energy is conserved. In an inelastic collision, the total kinetic energy of the system decreases. This type of collision is common in everyday experiences, such as when a hammer strikes a nail or when two cars collide. The loss of kinetic energy means that the objects involved will not rebound as much as they would in an elastic collision, or may not rebound at all.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

plasma
Plasma oscillations and parameters
In an inelastic collision, a fraction of the kinetic energy is transferred to the internal energy of the colliding particles. In an atom, for example, the electrons have certain allowed (discrete) energies and are said to be bound. During a collision, a bound electron may be excited—that…
Read More
In an inelastic collision, a fraction of the kinetic energy is transferred to the internal energy of the colliding particles. In an atom, for example, the electrons have certain allowed (discrete) energies and are said to be bound. During a collision, a bound electron may be excited—that…
Read More