Modern Physics
Relativistic Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy in special relativity. Reduces to ½mv² at low velocities.
Variables
KJ
Kinetic energy
Allowed values: 0 or more
γunitless
Lorentz factor
Allowed values: 1 or more
mkg
Rest mass
Allowed values: greater than 0
vm/s
Speed of the particle
cm/s
Speed of light
Allowed values: greater than 0
Your notes
0/5000
Constants in this formula
Other modern physics formulas with the same quantities
- Relativistic Momentum (Special Relativity) shares Lorentz factor, Rest mass, Speed of light
- Lorentz Factor (Special Relativity) shares Lorentz factor, Speed of light
- Time Dilation (Special Relativity) shares Lorentz factor, Speed of light
- Length Contraction (Special Relativity) shares Lorentz factor, Speed of light
- Energy-Momentum Relation (Special Relativity) shares Rest mass, Speed of light
- Proper Time (Special Relativity) shares Lorentz factor, Speed of light
Where this formula is listed
- Modern Physics formulas, under Special Relativity, alongside Relativistic Velocity Addition, Relativistic Doppler Effect and Relativity of Simultaneity.
- In the modern physics list it comes after Relativistic Total Energy and before Energy-Momentum Relation.
- Modern Physics formula sheet, one of 41 formulas printed with symbol keys and SI units.
- The full formula index, grouped by category and topic.
Common questions
What is the Relativistic Kinetic Energy formula?
Relativistic Kinetic Energy is written K = (γ − 1)mc². Kinetic energy in special relativity. Reduces to ½mv² at low velocities. It belongs to Modern Physics, under Special Relativity.
What are the units in K = (γ − 1)mc²?
In SI units, K is kinetic energy, measured in J; γ is lorentz factor (dimensionless); m is rest mass, measured in kg; v is speed of the particle, measured in m/s; c is speed of light, measured in m/s.