1. What is Total Kinetic Energy?

Total kinetic energy is the sum of kinetic energies of all particles in a system. Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion, calculated as one-half the mass times the square of the velocity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:

Where:

• \( m_i \) — Mass of each object (kg)
• \( v_i \) — Velocity of each object (m/s)
• \( \sum \) — Summation of all individual kinetic energies

Explanation: The calculator sums the kinetic energy contributions from all specified masses and their corresponding velocities.

3. Importance of Kinetic Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating total kinetic energy is essential in physics for understanding energy conservation, analyzing collisions, studying mechanical systems, and solving problems in dynamics and thermodynamics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter masses in kilograms and velocities in meters per second as comma-separated values. Ensure both lists have the same number of values and all values are positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units should I use for mass and velocity?
A: Use kilograms (kg) for mass and meters per second (m/s) for velocity to get results in joules (J).

Q2: Can I calculate kinetic energy for rotating objects?
A: This calculator is for translational kinetic energy. Rotational kinetic energy requires moment of inertia and angular velocity.

Q3: What if masses and velocities lists have different lengths?
A: The calculator requires equal numbers of mass and velocity values. Mismatched lists will not produce valid results.

Q4: Is kinetic energy always positive?
A: Yes, kinetic energy is always non-negative since it depends on mass (positive) and velocity squared.

Q5: 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.