Comparing Kinetic Energy of Two Airplanes with Different Speeds and Weights

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on comparing the kinetic energy of two airplanes: one traveling at the speed of sound and the other, half its weight, traveling at twice the speed of sound. The kinetic energy formula, KE = 1/2 mv^2, is applied to analyze both scenarios. It is concluded that the second airplane has a higher kinetic energy because the increase in speed has a greater impact, as kinetic energy increases with the square of the velocity. Calculations confirm that the second airplane's kinetic energy is quadrupled due to its speed, outweighing the effect of its reduced weight. Ultimately, the airplane traveling at twice the speed of sound has the greater kinetic energy.
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Homework Statement


Which has a higher kinetic energy?
An airplane traveling at the speed of sound or an airplane with half the weight of plane one and traveling at 2 times the speed of sound?

Homework Equations


KE = 1/2 mv^2
v=gt

The Attempt at a Solution


I think I am just get mixed up on words. If they were the same weight the plane going twice as fast would have 4 times the kinetic energy. (v=2^2=4).
I think I am going the wrong direction. Would their kinetic energy be the same? Since plane two weight is half but double the speed. Help
 
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E1 = (1/2)(m)(v^2)

E2 =(1/2)(0.5m)(2v^2)
E2 =(.5)(2^2)(1/2*m*v^2)
E2 =(.5)(2^2)(E1)
E2 = 2E1

I think you multiplied the final 2 by the half that is in the equation for kinetic energy.
 
Since the kinetic energy depends on the speed _squared_, doubling the speed will have more effect than doubling the mass. Try calculating both KE's.
 
I think I have it. Plane two will have the higher KE since KE is quadrupled with increase in speed. The weight is a factor but not as much as speed. Thanks
 
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