Mechanical Energy Calculator
Calculate kinetic energy, potential energy, and total mechanical energy of an object
kilograms (kg)
meters/second (m/s)
meters (m)
Formulas Used
Kinetic Energy (KE):
KE = ½ × m × v²
Potential Energy (PE):
PE = m × g × h
Total Mechanical Energy (TME):
TME = KE + PE
Where:
m = mass (kg)
v = velocity (m/s)
g = acceleration due to gravity (m/s²)
h = height (m)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mechanical energy?
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Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy in a system. It represents the energy associated with the motion and position of an object.
How is mechanical energy conserved?
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In a closed system with no external forces (like friction or air resistance), the total mechanical energy remains constant. This is known as the principle of conservation of mechanical energy.
What are the units of mechanical energy?
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Mechanical energy is measured in joules (J) in the International System of Units (SI). 1 joule is equal to 1 kg·m²/s².
Can mechanical energy be negative?
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Kinetic energy is always positive, but potential energy can be negative depending on the reference point. Therefore, total mechanical energy can be negative in certain reference frames.