SUMMARY
The kinetic energy of bullets fired at different speeds can be calculated using the formula EK = (1/2)mv². For a 3.5g bullet fired at 42.4 m/s, the correct kinetic energy is 3.14 Joules after converting the mass to kilograms (0.0035 kg). The initial calculation of 3235.968 was incorrect due to failure to convert grams to kilograms. The second bullet, fired at 69.6 m/s, would require a similar calculation for its kinetic energy.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of kinetic energy formula EK = (1/2)mv²
- Knowledge of unit conversion from grams to kilograms
- Basic physics concepts related to motion and energy
- Familiarity with calculating squares of numbers
NEXT STEPS
- Learn about unit conversions in physics, specifically mass from grams to kilograms
- Explore the implications of kinetic energy in real-world applications
- Study the effects of speed on kinetic energy using different masses
- Investigate other forms of energy and their calculations, such as potential energy
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, educators teaching energy concepts, and anyone interested in the practical applications of kinetic energy calculations.