The kinetic energy of a body moving at velocity V meters/sec and with mass M kg is given by 1/2 x M x V2, and this will be in Joules. Thermal energy can be expressed in calories, the relation is 1 calorie = 4.2 Joules.
The formula for converting kinetic energy into thermal energy is through the process of friction, where the kinetic energy of an object is converted into heat energy due to the resistance encountered during movement.
Friction can cause kinetic energy to change into thermal energy
To calculate thermal energy from kinetic energy, you can use the equation: Thermal energy 1/2 mass velocity2. This formula relates the kinetic energy of an object (determined by its mass and velocity) to the thermal energy it produces.
An example of converting gravitational energy into thermal energy is when a meteor enters Earth's atmosphere. As the meteor falls, its gravitational potential energy is converted to kinetic energy. Upon impact with the Earth's surface, this kinetic energy is converted into thermal energy, generating intense heat that vaporizes the meteor and surrounding materials.
The force responsible for converting kinetic energy into thermal energy is typically friction. As two surfaces rub against each other, the kinetic energy of the moving object is transformed into heat due to the resistance created by the frictional force.