Home
Back
Energy Equations:
| From: | To: |
Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion, while gravitational potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position in a gravitational field. These are fundamental concepts in physics that describe different forms of mechanical energy.
The calculator uses the standard physics equations:
Where:
Explanation: The kinetic energy equation shows that energy increases with the square of velocity, while potential energy increases linearly with height and mass.
Details: These calculations are essential in physics, engineering, and various applications including mechanical systems, energy conservation studies, and understanding motion dynamics in gravitational fields.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, velocity in meters/second, and height in meters. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute both kinetic and potential energy simultaneously.
Q1: What units should I use for the inputs?
A: Use kilograms for mass, meters/second for velocity, and meters for height to get results in Joules.
Q2: Why is gravitational acceleration 9.81 m/s²?
A: This is the standard value for Earth's gravitational acceleration at sea level. It may vary slightly at different locations.
Q3: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always positive or zero since it depends on mass (positive) and velocity squared.
Q4: What if an object has both kinetic and potential energy?
A: The total mechanical energy would be the sum of both kinetic and potential energy (KE + PE).
Q5: Are there other forms of potential energy?
A: Yes, there are other types such as elastic potential energy (in springs) and chemical potential energy, but this calculator focuses on gravitational potential energy.