Help Solving Kinetic Energy Equation to Find Mass of Car

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SUMMARY

The kinetic energy equation K.E. = (1/2)(Mass)(Velocity squared) is applied to determine the mass of a car with a kinetic energy of 432,000 Joules traveling at 42 m/s. The correct calculation reveals that the mass is 1,500 kg, not 150 kg as initially calculated by the user. The discrepancy arose from a potential error in inputting values into the calculator. All units are in SI, so no conversions are necessary.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy formula
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
  • Familiarity with SI units
  • Calculator proficiency for mathematical computations
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  • Review the kinetic energy formula and its applications in physics
  • Practice solving for mass using different kinetic energy and velocity values
  • Explore common errors in calculator usage and how to avoid them
  • Learn about the implications of kinetic energy in real-world scenarios, such as vehicle dynamics
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Students in physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of kinetic energy and mass calculations.

drumjunkie
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A car has the kinetic energy of 432000 Joules when traveling at a speed of 42 m/s.

What is its mass? (Kg)

I know that K.E. = (1/2)(Mass)(Velocity squared)

So the equation reads 432000 = (1/2)(42 squared)(M)
I got an answer of 150 but my online program told me it was wrong.

Help?
Do I need to convert units somewhere?
 
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drumjunkie said:
A car has the kinetic energy of 432000 Joules when traveling at a speed of 42 m/s.

What is its mass? (Kg)

I got an answer of 150 but my online program told me it was wrong.

Do I need to convert units somewhere?
No. Everything is in SI units. I think you just made a typo in your calculator.
 
when I did it, I had an answer about 3 times bigger than yours. Perhaps check your math?
 

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