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Kinetic Energy From Momentum Equation:
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Kinetic energy can be calculated using momentum when mass is known through the relationship \( KE = \frac{p^2}{2m} \), where p is momentum and m is mass. This formula provides an alternative method to calculate kinetic energy without using velocity directly.
The calculator uses the kinetic energy from momentum equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation derives from the fundamental definitions of kinetic energy (\( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \)) and momentum (\( p = mv \)), combining them to eliminate velocity.
Details: Calculating kinetic energy from momentum is particularly useful in physics problems where momentum is known or measured, but velocity is not directly available. This approach is common in collision analysis and momentum conservation problems.
Tips: Enter momentum in kg·m/s and mass in kg. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the kinetic energy in joules.
Q1: Why calculate kinetic energy from momentum instead of velocity?
A: This method is useful when momentum data is available from experiments or when working with momentum conservation principles in physics problems.
Q2: What are typical units for momentum and kinetic energy?
A: Momentum is typically measured in kg·m/s, while kinetic energy is measured in joules (J) in the SI system.
Q3: Can this formula be used for relativistic particles?
A: No, this formula is for classical mechanics only. For relativistic particles, different equations accounting for relativistic effects must be used.
Q4: What if I only have velocity and need kinetic energy?
A: Use the standard kinetic energy formula \( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \) if you have mass and velocity instead of momentum.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation for real-world applications?
A: This calculation is mathematically exact within classical mechanics, but real-world factors like air resistance or friction may affect actual energy values.