1. What is Kinetic Energy?

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, calculated using the formula KE = (1/2) × m × v².

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:

Where:

• \( KE \) — Kinetic Energy (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kilograms)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (meters per second)

Explanation: The kinetic energy increases with the square of velocity, meaning doubling the velocity quadruples the kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Kinetic Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating kinetic energy is essential in physics and engineering for understanding energy conservation, collision dynamics, and designing safety systems in vehicles and machinery.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive (mass > 0, velocity ≥ 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of kinetic energy?
A: The SI unit for kinetic energy is Joules (J), where 1 J = 1 kg·m²/s².

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 quantities.

Q3: How does mass affect kinetic energy?
A: Kinetic energy is directly proportional to mass - doubling the mass doubles the kinetic energy (at constant velocity).

Q4: What is the relationship between velocity and kinetic energy?
A: Kinetic energy is proportional to the square of velocity - doubling the velocity quadruples the kinetic energy.

Q5: Is this formula valid for all types of motion?
A: This formula applies to translational kinetic energy. Rotational kinetic energy uses a different formula involving moment of inertia and angular velocity.