KE = (1/2) * m * v²
Where:
* KE is the kinetic energy, measured in Joules (J)
* m is the mass of the object, measured in kilograms (kg)
* v is the velocity of the object, measured in meters per second (m/s)
Here's how to break down the formula:
1. Square the velocity: Multiply the velocity of the object by itself (v * v = v²).
2. Multiply by the mass: Multiply the squared velocity by the mass of the object.
3. Divide by two: Divide the result from step 2 by 2.
Example:
Let's say a car with a mass of 1000 kg is traveling at a velocity of 20 m/s. To calculate its kinetic energy:
1. v² = 20 m/s * 20 m/s = 400 m²/s²
2. m * v² = 1000 kg * 400 m²/s² = 400,000 kg * m²/s²
3. KE = (1/2) * 400,000 kg * m²/s² = 200,000 J
Therefore, the kinetic energy of the car is 200,000 Joules.
