1. What is Kinetic Energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. It is defined as the work needed to accelerate a body of a given mass from rest to its stated velocity.

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 the velocity, meaning doubling the speed quadruples the kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Kinetic Energy Calculation

Details: Kinetic energy calculations are essential in physics, engineering, and various practical applications including vehicle safety design, sports science, and energy conservation studies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of kinetic energy?
A: Kinetic energy is measured in Joules (J) in the SI system.

Q2: How does mass affect kinetic energy?
A: Kinetic energy is directly proportional to mass - doubling the mass doubles the kinetic energy (at constant velocity).

Q3: Why is velocity squared in the formula?
A: Velocity is squared because the work required to accelerate an object increases with the square of its final velocity.

Q4: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always positive or zero (when velocity is zero).

Q5: 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.