What is kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is defined as the energy an object possesses due to its motion. This concept is fundamental in physics, illustrating how an object's velocity and mass contribute to its kinetic energy. The formula for calculating kinetic energy is KE = 1/2 mv², where m represents the mass of the object and v represents its velocity.

This definition directly correlates with everyday experiences; for example, a moving car, a rolling ball, or a flying airplane all exhibit kinetic energy because they are in motion. The faster an object moves or the more massive it is, the greater its kinetic energy will be.

In contrast, the other options refer to different forms of energy or states of matter. Energy stored in an object pertains to potential energy, which is energy held by an object because of its position or state. Energy at rest also relates to potential energy, highlighting the absence of motion. Energy transformed by heat focuses on thermal energy, which is involved in the transfer of heat and changes in temperature. These distinctions further clarify the unique nature of kinetic energy as related specifically to motion.