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Rotational Kinetic Energy Formula:
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Rotational kinetic energy is the energy possessed by a rotating object due to its motion. It depends on the object's moment of inertia and angular velocity, analogous to how translational kinetic energy depends on mass and linear velocity.
The calculator uses the rotational kinetic energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the energy stored in rotational motion, where the moment of inertia represents the rotational mass and angular velocity represents the rotational speed.
Details: Calculating rotational kinetic energy is essential in mechanical engineering, physics, and various applications involving rotating systems such as flywheels, turbines, gears, and rotating machinery.
Tips: Enter moment of inertia in kg m² and angular velocity in rad/s. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What is moment of inertia?
A: Moment of inertia is a measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotation rate. It depends on the mass distribution relative to the axis of rotation.
Q2: How is angular velocity measured?
A: Angular velocity is typically measured in radians per second (rad/s) but can also be expressed in revolutions per minute (RPM) or degrees per second.
Q3: What are typical applications of rotational kinetic energy?
A: Common applications include energy storage in flywheels, analysis of rotating machinery, understanding planetary motion, and designing mechanical systems with rotating components.
Q4: How does rotational KE differ from translational KE?
A: Translational kinetic energy (\( \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \)) deals with linear motion, while rotational kinetic energy deals with rotational motion. Both represent energy of motion but in different forms.
Q5: Can rotational and translational kinetic energy be converted?
A: Yes, in many mechanical systems, energy can convert between rotational and translational forms, such as in wheels rolling without slipping or in mechanical transmissions.