If the collision is TOTALLY elastic, there will be NO lost kinetic energy. For a totally elastic collision the objects will separate with the same speed that they approached one another.

Loss in Kinetic Energy in Elastic Collision

Elastic collision is a type of collision where there is no loss of kinetic energy. In other words, the total kinetic energy of the system remains constant before and after the collision. However, in reality, it is almost impossible to have a perfectly elastic collision.

Factors Affecting Loss of Kinetic Energy

There are several factors that can affect the loss of kinetic energy in elastic collision:

1. Nature of the material: The nature of the material involved in the collision plays a crucial role in determining the loss of kinetic energy. Generally, if the material is more rigid, the loss of kinetic energy will be less.

2. Velocity of the colliding objects: The velocity of the colliding objects also affects the loss of kinetic energy. If the velocity is high, the loss of kinetic energy will be more.

3. Mass of the colliding objects: The mass of the colliding objects also plays a role in determining the loss of kinetic energy. If the mass is high, the loss of kinetic energy will be less.

Calculation of Loss of Kinetic Energy

The loss of kinetic energy in elastic collision can be calculated using the following formula:

Loss of Kinetic Energy = Initial Kinetic Energy - Final Kinetic Energy

where,

Initial Kinetic Energy = 1/2 mv1^2 + 1/2 mv2^2 (where m is the mass of the object and v1 and v2 are their velocities)

Final Kinetic Energy = 1/2 mV^2 (where V is the velocity of the objects after the collision)

Conclusion

In conclusion, although elastic collisions are defined as collisions where there is no loss of kinetic energy, in reality, there is always some loss due to various factors. However, the loss can be minimized by choosing the right materials, adjusting the velocity of the objects, and considering the mass of the colliding objects. The calculation of loss of kinetic energy can help us understand the impact of these factors on the collision.