Work-Energy Theorem Calculator (W = ΔKE)
Work-Energy Theorem Calculator (W = ΔKE)
The work-energy theorem states that the net work done on an object equals its change in kinetic energy - a shortcut that skips over force, acceleration, and distance entirely when you just need to relate work to speed. Choose which variable to solve for, enter the other known values, and this calculator computes the answer.
- W = ΔKE = ½m(vf² - vi²), so 500 J of net work on a 10 kg object starting at rest (vi = 0) gives a final velocity of √(2×500/10) = 10 m/s.
- This theorem works regardless of how the force varies - unlike F = ma, which needs a constant force, the work-energy theorem holds even for forces that change throughout the motion, as long as you know the total work done.
- See the Mechanical Energy Calculator if you also need to account for height changes (potential energy) alongside kinetic energy.
How do I use the work-energy theorem?
Set the net work done equal to the change in kinetic energy: W = ½m(vf² - vi²), then solve for whichever variable is unknown.
What is the final velocity if 500 J of work is done on a 10 kg object starting from rest?
500 = ½ × 10 × (vf² - 0²), so vf = √(2×500/10) = 10 m/s.
Work-Energy Theorem Calculator (W = ΔKE)
The work-energy theorem states that the net work done on an object equals its change in kinetic energy - a shortcut that skips over force, acceleration, and distance entirely when you just need to relate work to speed. Choose which variable to solve for, enter the other known values, and this calculator computes the answer.
- W = ΔKE = ½m(vf² - vi²), so 500 J of net work on a 10 kg object starting at rest (vi = 0) gives a final velocity of √(2×500/10) = 10 m/s.
- This theorem works regardless of how the force varies - unlike F = ma, which needs a constant force, the work-energy theorem holds even for forces that change throughout the motion, as long as you know the total work done.
- See the Mechanical Energy Calculator if you also need to account for height changes (potential energy) alongside kinetic energy.
How do I use the work-energy theorem?
Set the net work done equal to the change in kinetic energy: W = ½m(vf² - vi²), then solve for whichever variable is unknown.
What is the final velocity if 500 J of work is done on a 10 kg object starting from rest?
500 = ½ × 10 × (vf² - 0²), so vf = √(2×500/10) = 10 m/s.