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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 defined as the work needed to accelerate a body of a given mass from rest to its stated velocity.
The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that kinetic energy is proportional to the mass of the object and to the square of its velocity.
Details: Calculating kinetic energy is essential in physics, engineering, and various practical applications such as vehicle safety design, sports science, and energy conservation calculations.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be valid (mass > 0, velocity ≥ 0).
Q1: What are the units for kinetic energy?
A: The SI unit for kinetic energy is the Joule (J), which is equal to kg·m²/s².
Q2: How does velocity affect kinetic energy?
A: Kinetic energy increases with the square of velocity. Doubling the velocity quadruples the kinetic energy.
Q3: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always a non-negative quantity since both mass and the square of velocity are non-negative.
Q4: What's the difference between kinetic and potential energy?
A: Kinetic energy is energy of motion, while potential energy is stored energy based on an object's position or configuration.
Q5: How is kinetic energy used in real-world applications?
A: Kinetic energy calculations are used in vehicle crash testing, renewable energy systems (like wind turbines), sports equipment design, and many engineering applications.