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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, calculated using the formula KE = (1/2) × m × v².
The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The kinetic energy increases with the square of velocity, meaning doubling the velocity quadruples the kinetic energy, while doubling the mass only doubles the kinetic energy.
Details: Calculating kinetic energy is essential in physics for understanding energy conservation, collision dynamics, and mechanical work. It's used in various fields including engineering, automotive safety, and sports science.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the kinetic energy in Joules.
Q1: What are the SI units for kinetic energy?
A: The SI unit for kinetic energy is the Joule (J), which is equivalent to kg·m²/s².
Q2: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always a positive quantity or zero (when velocity is zero) since both mass and the square of velocity are always 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's the difference between kinetic and potential energy?
A: Kinetic energy is energy of motion, while potential energy is stored energy due to position or configuration.
Q5: How is kinetic energy used in real-world applications?
A: Kinetic energy calculations are crucial in designing safety systems (airbags, crumple zones), analyzing vehicle collisions, understanding planetary motion, and optimizing sports equipment performance.