Coefficient Of Restitution (C. O. R.)
A DISCUSSION ON BETTER UNDERSTANDING C.O.R.
C.O.R. is easier to understand with a few additional examples and a little deeper explanation. First, recognize that when two objects collide there are 3 basic conditions of impact that exist. There are perfectly elastic collisions, perfectly inelastic collisions and everything else in-between.
An almost perfectly elastic collision is best demonstrated by two ivory que balls. When they collide, no or very little mechanical energy is dissipated so the speed-in of one ball is equal to the speed-out of the other ball after the collision. So, the C.O.R. is 1.00 or 100%.
A perfectly inelastic collision is best demonstrated by using two balls of putty, let’s say the size of golf balls. When one ball of putty impacts the other ball of putty, they both stick together, so the speed-out of the second ball of putty is 0. So, the C.O.R. is 0 or 0%.
