If velocity doubles, how does kinetic energy change for a given mass?

Prepare for the Year 10 Force and Motion Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with clear hints and explanations to ensure success. Equip yourself for excellence on your exam!

Multiple Choice

If velocity doubles, how does kinetic energy change for a given mass?

Explanation:
Kinetic energy scales with the square of velocity for a given mass, because KE = 1/2 m v^2. If you double the speed (v becomes 2v), the new energy is KE' = 1/2 m (2v)^2 = 1/2 m * 4v^2 = 4 × (1/2 m v^2). So the kinetic energy becomes four times larger. The square relationship is why you don’t get just twice the energy; you get four times.

Kinetic energy scales with the square of velocity for a given mass, because KE = 1/2 m v^2. If you double the speed (v becomes 2v), the new energy is KE' = 1/2 m (2v)^2 = 1/2 m * 4v^2 = 4 × (1/2 m v^2). So the kinetic energy becomes four times larger. The square relationship is why you don’t get just twice the energy; you get four times.

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