Kinetic Energy Calculator
Use our kinetic energy calculator to calculate kinetic energy from mass and velocity. Includes the kinetic energy formula (KE = 1/2 mv^2), a worked example, and steps for how to calculate kinetic energy in physics.
Where Does Kinetic Energy Come From?
Kinetic energy is the energy an object has because it is moving. The faster something moves, or the more mass it has, the more kinetic energy it carries.
In physics, kinetic energy shows up whenever motion is involved: a car driving, a ball thrown, wind spinning a turbine, or a moving object colliding with another. In many situations, energy transfers into or out of kinetic energy (for example, potential energy turning into kinetic energy as something falls).
Because velocity is squared in the formula, kinetic energy increases very quickly as speed increases.
Kinetic Energy Formula
Kinetic energy is calculated from mass and velocity using this standard physics equation.
With m in kilograms (kg) and v in meters per second (m/s), KE is in joules (J).
Doubling velocity would increase KE by 4× because velocity is squared.
How to Calculate Kinetic Energy
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Enter the mass (kg).
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Enter the velocity (m/s).
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The calculator applies KE = 1/2 · m · v^2 and outputs kinetic energy in joules (J).
Frequently Asked Questions
Use KE = 1/2 · m · v^2. Multiply mass by velocity squared, then divide by 2.
If mass is in kg and velocity is in m/s, the result is automatically in joules (J).
Kinetic energy increases when mass increases or when speed increases. Speed has a bigger effect because kinetic energy scales with v^2.
It comes from motion. Kinetic energy can be transferred from other forms of energy, like potential energy (falling objects) or chemical energy (engines turning fuel into motion).
There is not one single person credited with discovering kinetic energy. The idea developed over time as scientists studied motion and energy, and the modern formula is part of classical mechanics.