Kinetic Energy (AQA GCSE Physics)

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Kinetic Energy

  • Energy in the kinetic store is defined as:

The amount of energy an object has as a result of its mass and speed

  • This means that any object in motion has energy in its kinetic store
    • If an object speeds up, energy is transferred to its kinetic store
    • If an object slows down, energy is transferred away from its kinetic store

Kinetic Energy Car, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

  • Kinetic energy can be calculated using the equation:

Ek = ½ × m × v2

  • Where:
    • Ek = kinetic energy in joules (J)
    • m = mass of the object in kilograms (kg)
    • v = speed of the object in metres per second (m/s)

Worked example

Calculate the kinetic energy stored in a vehicle of mass 1200 kg moving at a speed of 27 m/s.

 

Step 1: List the known quantities

      • Mass of the vehicle, m = 1200 kg
      • Speed of the vehicle, v = 27 m/s

Step 2: Write down the equation for kinetic energy

EK = ½ mv2

Step 3: Calculate the kinetic energy

EK = ½ × 1200 × (27)2

EK = 437 400 J

Step 4: Round the final answer to 2 significant figures

EK = 440 000 J

Examiner Tip

When performing calculations using the kinetic energy equation, always double-check that you have squared the speed. Forgetting to do this is the most common mistake that students make.

The kinetic energy equation is one of the most difficult rearrangements you will have to do in AQA GCSE Physics, so if you take the time to learn how to master this one, all the others will be easy by comparison! Remember the rules for rearranging equations; to undo an operation, you do the opposite operation, and whatever you do to one side of the equation, you must also do to the other side.

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.