This definitions covers Key Definitions within Kinetic Energy for GCSE Physics. Revise Kinetic Energy in Energy for GCSE Physics with 15 exam-style questions and 30 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 9 of 15 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
📖 Key Definitions
Kinetic energy: The energy stored in a moving object. E_k = ½mv². Units: Joules (J).
Mass: The amount of matter in an object. Measured in kilograms (kg). Do not confuse with weight (which is a force in Newtons).
Velocity: Speed in a particular direction. Measured in metres per second (m/s). Must be squared in the KE equation.
Work-energy theorem: The work done on an object equals the change in its kinetic energy. W = ΔE_k.
Practice questions for Kinetic Energy
Which of the following objects has kinetic energy stored in its kinetic energy store?
A car travels at 20 m/s. The driver then doubles their speed to 40 m/s. Explain what happens to the kinetic energy of the car and by what factor it changes.