1. What is Kinetic Energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. It represents the total energy of motion for a mass and depends on both the mass and velocity of the object.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:

Where:

• \( KE \) — Kinetic energy (joules, J)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kilograms, kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (meters per second, m/s)

Explanation: The formula shows that kinetic energy is proportional to the mass of the object and the square of its velocity. This means doubling the velocity quadruples the kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Kinetic Energy Calculation

Details: Kinetic energy calculations are fundamental in physics and engineering for understanding motion, collisions, energy conservation, and designing safety systems in vehicles and machinery.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive (mass > 0, velocity ≥ 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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: Why is velocity squared in the formula?
A: Velocity is squared because kinetic energy depends on the square of the speed - this reflects how energy increases dramatically with speed.

Q3: 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 quantities.

Q4: 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.

Q5: 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.