Solving Kinetic Energy: How Do I Rearrange the Equation for Mass?

In summary, the kinetic energy equation states that kinetic energy (J) is equal to half of the mass (Kg) times the velocity squared (m/s). To rearrange the equation, you can use algebra to solve for any of the variables. For example, if you know the velocity and kinetic energy, you can solve for mass by dividing both sides of the equation by the velocity squared and multiplying by 2. In the given scenario, the weight of an object traveling at 2m/s with 2J of kinetic energy can be calculated by using the formula W = mg, where g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 10 m/s^2). Therefore, the weight would be 10N.
  • #1
thomas49th
655
0
Hi, I know the kinetic energy equation is

Kinetic Energy(J) = 0.5 x Mass (Kg) x velocity² (m/s)

So how do I rearrange it. I've been having problems with it

I have a question here

What is the weight of an object traveling at 2m/s with 2J of kinetic energy?


the answer is 10N, but how?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
thomas49th said:
What is the weight of an object traveling at 2m/s with 2J of kinetic energy?

If you know the velocity and the kinetic energy of the object, what can you calculate from the definition of kinetic energy? You wrote it down already.
 
  • #3
write it like this
2J=(1/2)m(2m/s)^2
algebra.
then you need to get weight from mass.
 
  • #4
1N so weight is

1 x 10 = 10N/Kg?
 
  • #5
thomas49th said:
1N so weight is

1 x 10 = 10N/Kg?

If you round up g to equal 10, then you have W = mg = 1 [kg] * 10 [m/s^2] = 10 [kg m /s^2] = 10 [N] ! Watch out for units!
 

Related to Solving Kinetic Energy: How Do I Rearrange the Equation for Mass?

1. What is the equation for kinetic energy?

The equation for kinetic energy is KE = 1/2 * m * v^2, where KE represents kinetic energy, m represents mass, and v represents velocity.

2. How do I rearrange the equation for mass?

To rearrange the equation for mass, divide both sides by 1/2 and then divide both sides by v^2. This will result in the equation m = 2 * KE / v^2.

3. Can I solve for mass if I know the kinetic energy and velocity?

Yes, using the equation m = 2 * KE / v^2, you can solve for mass if you know the values of kinetic energy and velocity.

4. What is the unit of mass in the kinetic energy equation?

The unit of mass in the kinetic energy equation is kilograms (kg).

5. What is the relationship between mass and kinetic energy?

The mass of an object has a direct relationship with its kinetic energy. This means that as the mass increases, the kinetic energy also increases, assuming the velocity remains constant.

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