1. What is Elastic Kinetic Energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. In elastic collisions, kinetic energy is conserved, meaning the total kinetic energy before collision equals the total kinetic energy after collision.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the kinetic energy formula:

Where:

• \( KE \) — Kinetic Energy (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass (kilograms)
• \( v \) — Velocity (meters per second)

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

3. Importance of Kinetic Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating kinetic energy is essential in physics for understanding motion, collision dynamics, 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 is the unit of kinetic energy?
A: The SI unit for kinetic energy is Joules (J), where 1 Joule = 1 kg·m²/s².

Q2: Why is kinetic energy proportional to velocity squared?
A: Because the work needed to accelerate an object is proportional to the force applied over distance, and force is proportional to acceleration.

Q3: What is the difference between elastic and inelastic collisions?
A: In elastic collisions, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. In inelastic collisions, only momentum is conserved.

Q4: Can kinetic energy be negative?
A: No, kinetic energy is always non-negative since mass is positive and velocity is squared.

Q5: How does mass affect kinetic energy?
A: Kinetic energy is directly proportional to mass - doubling the mass doubles the kinetic energy at the same velocity.