What is the term for energy associated with motion?

Kinetic energy is the term used to describe the energy associated with motion. It is defined mathematically as the work done to accelerate an object from rest to its current velocity, which can be expressed by the formula ( KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 ), where ( m ) represents the mass of the object and ( v ) its velocity. This concept underscores that an object in motion possesses energy simply by virtue of its motion.

In contrast, potential energy refers to energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration, such as an object positioned at a height in a gravitational field or a compressed spring. Thermal energy, on the other hand, is related to the temperature of an object and is the energy due to the random motion of particles within that object. Centripetal energy isn't a standard term in physics; rather, centripetal force is the net force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directing it towards the center of the circle. Therefore, the correct identification of kinetic energy as energy associated with motion is crucial in understanding basic mechanics.