Final answer:
The proper unit for all types of energy is the joule (J), defined in base units as kg·m²/s². Kinetic energy calculations and work measurements both use joules, solidifying its use for energy measurement. Option (a) joule (J) is the correct unit for energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about the proper unit used for all types of energy. The SI (International System of Units) unit for energy is the joule (J), which can be expressed in base units as kg·m²/s². This means that energy, whether it be kinetic, potential, thermal, or any other form, can be measured in joules. The joule is defined as the energy transferred when applying a force of one newton over a distance of one meter. Thus, work which involves force acting over a distance is also measured in joules.
In physics, the equation for kinetic energy demonstrates this relationship: KE = ½mv², where KE is kinetic energy, m is mass, and v is velocity. When mass is measured in kilograms and velocity in meters per second, the resulting unit of energy is joules. This unit is further evidenced to be appropriate since joules are also used to measure work, where work (W) is calculated by the equation W = force × distance. It is important to note that these principles are not just theoretical; they have practical applications, such as calculating the energy of moving objects like cars, and are the basis for energy conversion calculations in various scientific fields.
Given the options a) joule (J), b) kilogram (kg), and c) meter per second (m/s), the correct unit for energy is option a) joule (J).