Kinetic Energy (Edexcel IGCSE Physics (Modular))

Revision Note

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Written by: Katie M

Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll

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:

$K E = \frac{1}{2} \times m \times v^{2}$

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.

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

$K E = \frac{1}{2} \times m \times v^{2}$

Step 3: Calculate the kinetic energy

$K E = \frac{1}{2} \times 1200 \times {(27)}^{2}$

$K E = 437 400 J$

Step 4: Round the final answer to 2 significant figures

$K E = 440 000 J$

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.

Last updated: 27 August 2024

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