Kinetic Energy

physics

Definition

Kinetic Energy

Kinetic energy is the form of energy a body possesses by virtue of its motion. For a point particle of mass $m$ moving at speed $v$, it is

$$K=\frac{1}{2}m{v}^2.$$

More generally, for a body with momentum $\mathbf{p}$, $K={\mathbf{p}}^2/2m$. Kinetic energy is always non-negative and is zero only when the body is at rest.