Physics & Astronomy

Elastic and Inelastic Collisions

Purpose
To demonstrate the difference between elastic and inelastic collisions.
Location
Room 136, shelf N4
Description
Hold the golf ball and the ball of clay above your head and drop them simultaneously so the students can see the difference between the fairly elastic collision of the golf ball with the floor and the inelastic collision of the clay, which sticks to the floor. (May also be used to explain coefficient of restitution.)