6.1 Rotational Kinetic Energy

Rotational Kinetic Energy

Just like in translational motion, rotating bodies also possess kinetic energy. The rotational kinetic energy of a rigid body is the sum of the kinetic energies of all its constituent particles in rotation.

Rotational kinetic energy is a scalar, measured in joules (J), and represented by K₍rot₎.

Important Equation: ${K_{rot} = \frac{1}{2} I \omega^2}$

${K_{rot}}$ = rotational kinetic energy of a rigid body

${I}$ = rotational inertia of the object

${\omega}$ = angular velocity of the object