Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy is the energy of motion: KE = ½mv². Doubling speed quadruples KE.
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Formula for kinetic energy
The kinetic energy of an object of mass m moving with speed v is KE = ½mv². So KE depends on the square of the speed: doubling the speed quadruples the kinetic energy. The unit is the joule (J).
✔ Key takeaway: KE = ½mv²; doubling v → 4× KE.
Link to simulator: Compare KE for different masses and speeds in the simulator.
💭 Think about this:
Why does a car need much more braking distance at high speed?