Calculating Kinetic Energy of Meteor

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the kinetic energy of a meteor, specifically a 1g meteor traveling at a speed of 30,000 m/s. The relevant equation for kinetic energy is provided, and participants are exploring the implications of the equation's components.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the kinetic energy formula but questions whether the mass should be adjusted due to the velocity being squared. Other participants clarify that the mass should not be multiplied by 4 and discuss the separation of terms in the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants clarifying misunderstandings about the kinetic energy formula. Some guidance has been offered regarding the application of the equation, but there is still exploration of the reasoning behind the original poster's question.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating assumptions about the relationship between mass and velocity in the context of the kinetic energy formula. There is no indication of missing information, but the original poster's confusion suggests a need for further clarification on the formula's structure.

vandorin
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Homework Statement



What is the Kineti energy of a 1g (0.001kg) meteor traveling at 30,000m/s? Express your answer in Joules.

Homework Equations


KE=1/2MV^2


The Attempt at a Solution


1/2(.001kg)(30,000)^2 = 450000J


Now since 30,000 is squared, would i have to multiply .001kg by 4, before i did all of this math?
 
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Nope. You just plug .001kg in for M. Out of curiosity, why would you multiply by 4?
 
I thought that since v is squared, you had to multiply the mass by 4...or is that only if its 2v^2?
 
vandorin said:
I thought that since v is squared, you had to multiply the mass by 4...or is that only if its 2v^2?

Nope, the one half is a separate term from the squared term:

KE = (1/2) * (m) * (v2)
 

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