Help Deriving the equation Ek=1/2mv^2

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The discussion focuses on deriving the equation for kinetic energy, Ek = 1/2mv^2, using principles from physics. Participants suggest utilizing energy conservation and kinematic equations, specifically Newton's Laws and the Work-Energy Theorem, to establish the relationship between kinetic energy and work done. Key equations mentioned include Ep = mg(delta)h and v^2 = v1^2 + 2a(delta)d. The conversation emphasizes the importance of verifying the correctness of the equations used in the derivation process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Laws of Motion
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Basic knowledge of energy conservation principles
  • Introduction to calculus concepts, particularly derivatives and antiderivatives
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  • Study the Work-Energy Theorem in detail
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations for constant acceleration
  • Explore the derivation of energy conservation from Newton's Laws
  • Review calculus techniques for integrating force functions
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Students in physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the derivation of kinetic energy and its relation to work and motion.

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Ok these are the equations I am allowed to use.
Ep=mg(delta)h
w=fd
v_av=(delta)d/(delta)t
(delta)d=v1(delta)t^2 + 1/2a(delta)t^2
V2=V1^2 + 2a(delta)d
w=work done(j)
f=force(Newtons)
d=distance(m)
v_av=average velocity
t=time(secs)
v2=final velocity
v1=initial velocity
a=acceleration

Ok, i haven't done anything so far, because I don't know where to start. I am not asking anyone to solve this for me, I'm just asking for some helpful clues
thanks
 
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You could use energy conservation with the potential energy and use kinimatics to find the final speed after a change in height, using that you should get the same answer that you would have gotten with KE so you would be able to derive it. (I hope that was clear)
But that's probably cheating, are you alowed to use cal ? If so than just sum up all of the work done over an interval.
 
Ok, first question, where does the Ek come from. It is not in any other equation, doesn't it have to be in order for me to derive i?
 
anyone know?
 
Using Newton's Law's you can derive the conservation of mechanical energy. In essence you can derive the expression, 1/2mv^2 + mgh = 0. You then define 1/2mv^2 as kinetic energy. Is this what your trying to do?
 
G01 said:
Using Newton's Law's you can derive the conservation of mechanical energy. In essence you can derive the expression, 1/2mv^2 + mgh = 0. You then define 1/2mv^2 as kinetic energy. Is this what your trying to do?

i don't fully understand that part
 
Using Calculus:
Write down Newton #2 (show a time derivative)
Most situations have Force functions that depend on location (x) rather than time.
So multiply Newton#2 by dx, which can switch places with the dv.
Now find the antiderivitive of each side.

Without Calculus:
v^2 = v^2 + 2ax ...
multiply by mass, then replace Fx by Work
 
Last edited:
Ek arises as an interesting quantity from the "Work-[Kinetic]Energy Theorem". Start with Newton-II for the case of a constant net force F_net doing work over a displacement d. Use your kinematic equations for constant acceleration to reveal this interesting quantity.

Before you start, you should really check the correctness of the equations that you were allowed to use... although the errors that appear may just be typos.
 
I was thinking of using the fifth equation (V^2 = ...) and the first one. Look what happens if you divide the fifth equation by 2 and see how the final speed is related to initial height. Multiplying by m should easily let you get to mV^2 / 2
 

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