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Kinetic Energy (Edexcel IGCSE Physics)

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Katie M

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Katie M

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Edexcel PhysicsEdexcel Science (Double Award): Physics

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Kinetic energy

  • Energy in an object's 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 energy store

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

  • Kinetic energy can be calculated using the equation:

K E space equals space 1 half space cross times space m space cross times space v squared

  • Where:

    • KE = 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.

 Answer:

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

K E space equals space 1 half space cross times space m space cross times space v squared

Step 3: Calculate the kinetic energy

K E space equals space 1 half space cross times space 1200 space cross times space open parentheses 27 close parentheses squared

K E space equals space 437 space 400 space straight J

Step 4: Round the final answer to 2 significant figures

K E space equals space 440 space 000 space straight J

Examiner Tips and Tricks

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.

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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.