Kinetic Energy Calculator


Solve for:

Kinetic Energy ( KE )

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Equation for Kinetic Energy is KE = ½ mv²

Choose to solve for Kinect Energy ( KE ), Mass ( m ), or Velocity ( v ).

J

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Kinetic Energy

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion.

kg

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Mass

Enter the mass in the specified unit (e.g., kilograms). Ensure it's a positive number.

m/s

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Velocity

Enter the acceleration in the specified unit (e.g., m/s). Ensure it's a positive number.

Calculate


Common Kinetic Energy Questions

What is kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion.

What is the formula for kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy can be calculated with the formula KE = ½ mv².

What factors affect an object's kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy depends on the mass ( m ) of the object and its velocity ( v ). It increases with higher mass or velocity.

Can kinetic energy be negative?

No, kinetic energy is always positive because it depends on the square of velocity, which is always non-negative.

What is the difference between kinetic energy and potential energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is the stored energy due to an object’s position or configuration.


Example Kinetic Energy Calculation

Example Problem:

A 1,200 kg car is moving at a speed of 20 m/s. What is its kinetic energy?


Step 1:  Identify the given values

From the problem, we are given:

•   Mass:  m = 1200 kg
•   Velocity:  v = 20 m/s


Step 2:  Write out the formula

The formula for kinetic energy is:  KE = ½ mv²
•   KE = Kinetic Energy
•   m = Mass
•   v = Velocity


Step 3:  Substitute the given values

KE = 0.5 x (1200) x (20)²


Step 4:  Simplify and solve

20² = 400
KE = 0.5 x 1200 x 400 = 480,000 / 2
KE = 240,000


Final Answer: 

The kinetic energy of the car is 240,000 Joules (J).