Kinetic Energy from Potential Energy Loss:
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This calculator determines kinetic energy using the principle of energy conservation, where potential energy lost equals kinetic energy gained when an object falls from rest.
The calculator uses the energy conservation equation:
Where:
Explanation: When an object falls from rest, its potential energy converts entirely to kinetic energy (assuming no air resistance).
Details: This method is crucial for calculating kinetic energy when velocity is unknown but height change is measurable, commonly used in physics problems and real-world applications.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, gravitational acceleration (default is Earth's gravity 9.81 m/s²), and height change in meters. All values must be positive.
Q1: Why can we calculate kinetic energy without velocity?
A: Due to energy conservation principle - potential energy lost equals kinetic energy gained when an object falls from rest.
Q2: What are the assumptions in this calculation?
A: Assumes no air resistance, no initial velocity, and all potential energy converts to kinetic energy.
Q3: Can this be used for objects not on Earth?
A: Yes, simply adjust the gravitational acceleration value for other planets or celestial bodies.
Q4: What if there is initial velocity?
A: This formula only works for objects starting from rest. With initial velocity, use \( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 + mg\Delta h \).
Q5: What are typical kinetic energy values?
A: Kinetic energy depends on mass and height - a 1kg object falling 1m on Earth gains about 9.81 Joules of kinetic energy.