inelastic collision

noun

: a collision in which part of the kinetic energy of the colliding particles changes into another form of energy (such as heat or radiation)

Examples of inelastic collision in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That's twice the recoil velocity for the inelastic collision. WIRED, 11 Oct. 2022 After the inelastic collision, the spacecraft just totally sticks into the asteroid. WIRED, 11 Oct. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inelastic collision was in 1937

Dictionary Entries Near inelastic collision

Cite this Entry

“Inelastic collision.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inelastic%20collision. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on inelastic collision

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!