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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 depends on both the mass of the object and its velocity, and is a fundamental concept in physics and engineering.
The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The kinetic energy increases with the square of the velocity, meaning that doubling the speed quadruples the kinetic energy.
Details: Kinetic energy calculations are essential in various fields including mechanical engineering, automotive safety, sports science, and physics education. It helps determine the energy that must be dissipated in collisions and the work required to accelerate objects.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. All values must be valid (mass > 0, velocity > 0).
Q1: What are the units of kinetic energy?
A: The SI unit for kinetic energy is Joules (J), where 1 J = 1 kg·m²/s².
Q2: 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.
Q3: What is 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.
Q4: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always positive or zero since both mass and the square of velocity are non-negative.
Q5: How is kinetic energy used in real-world applications?
A: It's used in vehicle crash testing, calculating stopping distances, designing safety equipment, and analyzing mechanical systems.