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Kinetic Energy Formula:
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Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. It is a scalar quantity that depends on both the mass and velocity of the object. The SI unit for kinetic energy is the joule (J).
The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The kinetic energy increases with the square of the velocity, meaning that doubling the velocity quadruples the kinetic energy.
Details: Calculating kinetic energy is essential in physics and engineering for understanding motion, collisions, energy transfer, and designing safety systems in vehicles and machinery.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive (mass > 0, velocity ≥ 0).
Q1: What is the difference between kinetic and potential energy?
A: Kinetic energy is energy of motion, while potential energy is stored energy based on position or configuration.
Q2: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always non-negative since both mass and the square of velocity are non-negative.
Q3: How does kinetic energy relate to work?
A: The work-energy theorem states that the net work done on an object equals its change in kinetic energy.
Q4: What is rotational kinetic energy?
A: For rotating objects, kinetic energy depends on moment of inertia and angular velocity: \( KE = \frac{1}{2} I \omega^2 \).
Q5: How is kinetic energy conserved in elastic collisions?
A: In perfectly elastic collisions, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.