What two factors determine the kinetic energy of an object?

Kinetic energy is defined as the energy an object possesses due to its motion. The formula for kinetic energy is given by KE = ½ mv², where 'm' represents the mass of the object and 'v' is its velocity. In this context, mass directly influences the quantity of kinetic energy; heavier objects (greater mass) will have more kinetic energy when moving at the same velocity compared to lighter objects.

Velocity, on the other hand, plays a significant role because kinetic energy is proportional to the square of the velocity. This means that even a small increase in velocity results in a more significant increase in kinetic energy. As such, both mass and velocity are crucial factors in determining how much kinetic energy an object has when it is in motion.

Other options, while related to physics, do not directly pertain to the definition and calculation of kinetic energy. Factors like weight and height relate more closely to potential energy, while an object's shape or the surface it moves on can affect friction and drag but do not determine kinetic energy itself. Additionally, temperature and medium may influence performance characteristics but do not determine the kinetic energy of an object.