Modern Physics
Relativistic Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy in special relativity. Reduces to ½mv² at low velocities.
Variables
KJ
Kinetic energy
\gammaunitless
Lorentz factor
mkg
Rest mass
vm/s
Speed of the particle
cm/s
Speed of light
Your notes
0/5000
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; \gamma 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.