Kinetic Energy

Kinetic Energy

Energy Mechanics Physics Contents Index Home

First Definition

When something is in motion it is said to have kinetic energy.

Formula

For an object that is moving the kinetic energy equals one half times the mass of the object times the square of the speed of the object. In symbols:

E_K = (1/2)mv²

Example Calculation

How much kinetic energy does an object have if its mass is 5.0 kg and it is moving at a speed of 4.0 m/s?

E_K = (1/2)mv² Formula for kinetic energy.

E_K = (1/2)(5.0 kg)(4.0 m/s)² Plug in values for mass and speed.

E_K = 40 J Kinetic Energy equals 40 J.

See also:

Mass on a Spring

Scramble Puzzle 1

Scramble Puzzle 2

Energy Mechanics Physics Contents Index Home

E-mail

E_K = (1/2)mv²	Formula for kinetic energy.
E_K = (1/2)(5.0 kg)(4.0 m/s)²	Plug in values for mass and speed.
E_K = 40 J	Kinetic Energy equals 40 J.