🔋 Kinetic Energy Calculator
Calculate kinetic energy (KE = ½mv²)
How Kinetic Energy Calculation Works
Formula
KE = ½ × m × v²
- 1Enter the mass of the object in kilograms.
- 2Enter the velocity (speed) in meters per second.
- 3The velocity is squared, then multiplied by mass and halved.
- 4Result is in joules (J), the SI unit of energy.
- 5Optionally enter height to compare with potential energy (PE = mgh).
About Kinetic Energy Calculator
Calculate kinetic energy using KE = ½mv². Enter mass and velocity to find energy in joules. Optionally compare with potential energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does velocity matter more than mass?
Kinetic energy depends on velocity squared. Doubling the speed quadruples the energy, while doubling the mass only doubles it. This is why high-speed collisions are so much more destructive.
What is a joule?
A joule (J) is the SI unit of energy. It equals the work done by a force of 1 Newton moving an object 1 meter. One joule also equals 1 watt-second.
How do kinetic and potential energy relate?
In a conservative system, total mechanical energy (KE + PE) is constant. As an object falls, potential energy converts to kinetic energy. At the lowest point, all energy is kinetic.