Enter the initial and final velocities of an object, along with it’s mass, into the calculator to determine the kinetic energy loss.

Energy Loss Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the kinetic energy loss of a moving object. 

EL = 1/2*M*Vi^2 - 1/2*M*Vf^2
  • Where EL is the total energy loss (J)
  • M is the mass of the object (kg)
  • Vi is the initial velocity (m/s)
  • Vf is the final velocity (m/s)

To calculate the energy loss of a moving object, subtract the initial kinetic energy from the final kinetic energy, where the initial and final kinetic energies are calculated using the formula 1/2*M*V^2.

What is energy loss?

Definition:

Energy loss is defined as any negative change in energy of a system. This energy loss can be through heat, radiation, movement, or friction.

In the case of the calculator and formula above, we are specifically looking at kinetic energy loss of a moving object. To explore heat loss, visit the heat loss calculator linked above.

How to calculate energy loss?

Example Problem:

The following example problem outlines how to calculate the energy loss of a moving object.

First, determine the mass of the object. In this example, the mass is weighed to be 10kg.

Next, determine the initial velocity of the object. In this example, the initial velocity is measured to be 12 m/s.

Next, determine final velocity after some event that causes energy loss. In this case, the final velocity is measured to be 8m/s.

Finally, calculate the total energy loss (kinetic), using the formula above:

EL = 1/2*M*Vi^2 – 1/2*M*Vf^2

EL = 1/2*10*12^2 – 1/2*10*8^2

EL = 400 J