The energy possessed by an object due to its motion is called kinetic energy . It's symbol is (k) .

What is Kinetic Energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion. The amount of kinetic energy an object has depends on its mass and speed. The formula to calculate kinetic energy is KE = 0.5 * m * v^2, where KE is kinetic energy, m is mass, and v is velocity.

Important Points - Matter in our Surroundings

1. Kinetic Energy and Matter in our Surroundings
- Kinetic energy is an important concept when studying matter in our surroundings. It helps us understand how particles in different states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) move and interact with each other.
- In solids, particles have the least amount of kinetic energy and vibrate in fixed positions. This is why solids have a definite shape and volume.
- In liquids, particles have more kinetic energy than solids and can move past each other, which is why liquids have a definite volume but not a definite shape.
- In gases, particles have the highest amount of kinetic energy and move freely in all directions. This is why gases have neither a definite shape nor a definite volume.

2. Temperature and Kinetic Energy
- The temperature of a substance is directly related to the average kinetic energy of its particles. As the temperature increases, the particles move faster and have more kinetic energy.
- This is why matter transitions from one state to another (e.g., solid to liquid to gas) as the temperature changes. The increase in temperature means an increase in kinetic energy, causing the particles to move more freely.

3. Kinetic Energy and Changes in State
- When a substance undergoes a change in state (e.g., melting, boiling), energy is either absorbed or released. This energy is used to overcome the forces holding the particles together.
- For example, when ice melts into water, energy is added to increase the kinetic energy of the particles, breaking the bonds between them and allowing them to flow freely.

In conclusion, understanding kinetic energy is crucial in studying matter in our surroundings and how it behaves in different states.