IGCSEPhysicsCIERevision Notes1. Motion, Forces & Energy1.7 Energy, Work & Power1.7.2 Kinetic Energy

Kinetic Energy (CIE IGCSE Physics)

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Kinetic Energy

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  • 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

1-7-2-kinetic-energy-cie-igcse-23-rn

  • 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

Exam 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.

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    Leander

    Author: Leander

    Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.