Why is the 1/2 important in the equation Ek = 1/2mv^2?

FakeGeek · Nov 29, 2010

Homework Statement

ok..so we know that Ek is by definition 1/2mv^2.
my question is that since Ek is simply defined to be that much..why does the 1/2 matter..
cant we simply write it as Ek = mv^2?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

rock.freak667 · Nov 29, 2010

The '1/2' comes into effect during the derivation of the formula for E_k using the basic definition of work done.

Why is the 1/2 important in the equation Ek = 1/2mv^2?

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Discussion

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