Which formula expresses kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion. The formula that expresses kinetic energy is derived from the relationship between an object's mass and its velocity. Specifically, kinetic energy is given by the formula KE = 1/2mv^2, where "m" represents the mass of the object and "v" represents its velocity.

This formula indicates that the kinetic energy of an object increases with the square of its speed, meaning that even small increases in velocity can lead to significant increases in kinetic energy. The factor of 1/2 is necessary for ensuring that the dimensions of energy are consistent when calculating based on mass and velocity.

The other choices relate to different physical concepts: one describes gravitational potential energy, another addresses work done by a force over a distance, and the last explains power as the rate of doing work. Each of these formulas pertains to specific forms of energy or mechanics but does not apply to kinetic energy as defined by its velocity and mass relationship.