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[[File:BBD5.jpg|thumb|220px|Goku charges ''ki'' in his hands]]
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[[File:BBD5.jpg|thumb|220px|Goku gathers ''ki'' between his hands]]
'''''Ki''''' (気; pronounced "Kee"), also known as '''''chi''''' or simply '''energy''' (エネルギー, ''enerugī''), is the force energy used by the ''[[Dragon Ball (franchise)|Dragon Ball]]'' characters. This force also bears some realistic tendencies being that it is "used" in the real life [[martial arts]], such as [[Wikipedia:Chinese martial arts|Kung Fu]] and [[Wikipedia:Tai Chi Chuan|Tai Chi]].
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'''''Ki''''' (気; pronounced "Kee"), also known as '''''chi''''' or simply '''energy''' (エネルギー, ''enerugī''), is a force energy used by ''[[Dragon Ball (franchise)|Dragon Ball]]'' characters. This force also bears some realistic tendencies being that it is "used" in the real life [[martial arts]], such as [[Wikipedia:Chinese martial arts|Kung Fu]] and [[Wikipedia:Tai Chi Chuan|Tai Chi]].
   
 
==Overview==
 
==Overview==
 
===Origin===
 
===Origin===
 
[[File:FriezaThreatens.Ep.047.png|thumb|left|Frieza charges a small ''ki'' sphere on his finger]]
 
[[File:FriezaThreatens.Ep.047.png|thumb|left|Frieza charges a small ''ki'' sphere on his finger]]
''Ki'' is also known as "latent energy" or "fighting power." The term is the [[Wikipedia:Japanese|Japanese]] pronunciation of the [[Wikipedia:Chinese|Chinese]] term "[[Wikipedia:Qi|Chi]]" (氣), which directly translates as "life force." This force is a tangible energy inside every living person, with its major focus being in the center of the body. By drawing it out, an individual is able to manipulate it and use it for performances outside the body. ''Ki'' can be used for many different [[techniques]]. It is necessary to increase one's ''ki'' to become strong, because there are physical limits to the strength of the body itself, in order to overcome that barrier.<ref name="Choz1">''[[Chōzenshū 1]]'', 2013</ref> Usually, the more concentrated the masses are, the more time the user requires to draw it out by [[Power Up|powering up]]. When fighters gather ''ki'', they are able to gain enhanced strength, speed, endurance, and can increase the power of their attacks to inflict greater damage to opponents. Normally, the more the ''ki'' is increased, the harder it is to control, so ''ki'' control is also important.<ref name="Choz1"/>
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''Ki'' is also known as "latent energy" or "fighting power." The term is the [[Wikipedia:Japanese|Japanese]] pronunciation of the [[Wikipedia:Chinese|Chinese]] term "[[Wikipedia:Qi|Chi]]" (氣), which directly translates as "life force." This force is a tangible energy inside every living being, with its major focus being in the center of the body. By drawing it out, an individual is able to manipulate it and use it outside the body. ''Ki'' can be used for many different [[techniques]]. Because there are physical limits to the strength of the body itself, it is necessary to increase one's ''ki'' to overcome this barrier and become stronger.<ref name="Choz1">''[[Chōzenshū 1]]'', 2013</ref> Usually, the more concentrated the masses are, the more time the user requires to draw it out by [[Power Up|powering up]]. When fighters gather ''ki'', they are able to gain enhanced strength, speed, endurance, and can increase the power of their attacks to inflict greater damage to opponents. Normally, the more the ''ki'' is increased, the harder it is to control, so ''ki'' control is also important.<ref name="Choz1"/> Energy can be lost when the user sustains injuries, as exclaimed by [[Gohan]] when he loses over half of his maximum energy supply when hit by Super Perfect [[Cell]]'s [[Time to Die]] attack.
   
 
According to [[Akira Toriyama]], ''ki'' is made up of three components: '''''Genki''''' (元気; lit. "Energy"), '''''Yūki''''' (勇気; lit. "Courage") and '''''Shōki''''' (正気; lit. "Mind"). Also, ''ki'' can be "positive" or "negative", depending on the user.
 
According to [[Akira Toriyama]], ''ki'' is made up of three components: '''''Genki''''' (元気; lit. "Energy"), '''''Yūki''''' (勇気; lit. "Courage") and '''''Shōki''''' (正気; lit. "Mind"). Also, ''ki'' can be "positive" or "negative", depending on the user.
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===Name===
 
===Name===
 
In the English version of the anime, the term ''ki'' is rarely used, usually referred to as "Spirit Energy" or "Energy" instead. However, it is referred to by name in video games, even in the English versions. It is called '''W''' in the NES game ''[[Dragon Ball 3: Gokuden]]''. It is referred to as '''airbending''' in ''[[Dragonball Evolution]]''.
 
In the English version of the anime, the term ''ki'' is rarely used, usually referred to as "Spirit Energy" or "Energy" instead. However, it is referred to by name in video games, even in the English versions. It is called '''W''' in the NES game ''[[Dragon Ball 3: Gokuden]]''. It is referred to as '''airbending''' in ''[[Dragonball Evolution]]''.
  +
  +
When using Super Saiyan Goku (Naruto Sage Mode Costume) in ''[[Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Z]]'', he refers to it as '''Chakra''' instead of ''ki'' or energy.
   
 
===Appearances===
 
===Appearances===
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==Usage==
 
==Usage==
 
===Auras===
 
===Auras===
  +
{{Main|Aura Charge Items}}
[[File:Nappa Lightning Aura 2.PNG|thumb|left|Nappa with a lightning aura]]
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[[File:Nappa Lightning Aura 2.PNG|thumb|left|Nappa powering up with a lighting aura]]
 
'''Auras''' of ''ki'' radiate from the user when increasing the concentration of it inside their body. Warriors (excluding [[Android]]s) have a limit to the ''ki'' that their bodies can withstand, but the capacity for ''ki'' can be increased through mental and physical training. Some [[techniques]] (such as the [[Kaio-ken]]) rapidly increase the concentration of ''ki'' in the body, enabling the user to fight at a strength level that far exceeds their regular limits for a limited period of time. Auras can displace solid matter.
 
'''Auras''' of ''ki'' radiate from the user when increasing the concentration of it inside their body. Warriors (excluding [[Android]]s) have a limit to the ''ki'' that their bodies can withstand, but the capacity for ''ki'' can be increased through mental and physical training. Some [[techniques]] (such as the [[Kaio-ken]]) rapidly increase the concentration of ''ki'' in the body, enabling the user to fight at a strength level that far exceeds their regular limits for a limited period of time. Auras can displace solid matter.
   
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In the anime, auras are sometimes used for comical effect; for example, during the [[Garlic Jr. Saga]], Goku's wife [[Chi-Chi]] angrily produces a red-colored (similar to the aura produced by the [[Kaio-ken]]) aura after being angered by [[Maron]] (Krillin's girlfriend); though it appeared similar to the Kaio-Ken, its red color was likely intended to comically represent Chi-Chi's anger.
 
In the anime, auras are sometimes used for comical effect; for example, during the [[Garlic Jr. Saga]], Goku's wife [[Chi-Chi]] angrily produces a red-colored (similar to the aura produced by the [[Kaio-ken]]) aura after being angered by [[Maron]] (Krillin's girlfriend); though it appeared similar to the Kaio-Ken, its red color was likely intended to comically represent Chi-Chi's anger.
   
In ''[[Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3]]'', there are several [["Aura Charge" Items|Aura Charge Z-items]] that change the default color of a character's aura to a different one (for example, [[Aura Charge Red]] gives the character a red Kaio-ken-like aura) or grants an aura effect on characters (like Androids) who do not possess an aura. There is also the bio-electric aura produced by the [[Super Saiyan 2]] and [[Super Saiyan 3]] levels (and [[Cell#Super Perfect Cell|Cell]] as well). In the anime, lightning auras are sometimes placed randomly on various characters, regardless of their transformation or power level.
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In ''[[Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3]]'', there are several [[Aura Charge Items|Aura Charge Z-items]] that change the default color of a character's aura to a different one (for example, [[Aura Charge Red]] gives the character a red Kaio-ken-like aura) or grants an aura effect on characters (like Androids) who do not possess an aura. There is also the bio-electric aura produced by the [[Super Saiyan 2]] and [[Super Saiyan 3]] levels (and Cell as well). In the anime, lightning auras are sometimes placed randomly on various characters, regardless of their transformation or [[power level]].
   
===Ki Attacks===
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===Ki attacks===
 
{{Main|Ki Blast|Energy Wave}}
 
{{Main|Ki Blast|Energy Wave}}
   
 
===Transformation===
 
===Transformation===
 
{{Main|Transformation}}
 
{{Main|Transformation}}
[[File:Vegeta gt ssj2.jpg|thumb|left|Vegeta increasing his ''ki'' by turning into a Super Saiyan]]
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[[File:Vegeta gt ssj2.jpg|thumb|left|Vegeta using his ''ki'' to transform into a Super Saiyan]]
Depending on their genetic inheritance, some beings are able to transform. However, not all beings are able to transform at will; in some instances, there must be certain environmental conditions required for their transformation (like moonlight for [[Great Ape]] transformations) or emotional upheaval (for [[Super Saiyan]]s). By transforming, a person then acquires physical limits that somehow change the ones of their regular body. Effects of transformations usually include alterations in strength and ''ki'' capacity. Some other effects may include differences in speed and durability. The most common transformation is the [[Super Saiyan]] transformation, which is only accessible to certain Saiyans and Saiyan/Human hybrids. The negative aspect of most transformations is that the process itself consumes energy. The effect of energy loss when dealing with Super Saiyan transformation can be limited through [[Full-Power Super Saiyan|training]].
+
Depending on their genetic inheritance, some beings are able to transform. However, not all beings are able to transform at will; in some instances, there must be certain environmental conditions required for their transformation (like moonlight for [[Great Ape]] transformations) or emotional upheaval (for [[Super Saiyan]]s). By transforming, a person can change the limits of their regular body. Effects of transformations usually include alterations in strength and ''ki'' capacity. Some other effects may include differences in speed and durability. The most common transformation is the [[Super Saiyan]] transformation, which is only accessible to certain Saiyans and Saiyan/Human hybrids. The negative aspect of most transformations is that the process itself consumes energy. The effect of energy loss when dealing with Super Saiyan transformations can be limited through [[Full-Power Super Saiyan|training]].
   
Transformation is not always intended for increasing abilities. Some beings are known to transform in order to limit their abilities rather than increasing them. An example of this is [[Frieza]], who was first seen in a suppressed state, being that his fourth form was his original state, and the form that he is first seen in was actually a transformed one. [[Cell]] demonstrated a similar ability when he reverted to a larval state in order to fit in [[Future Trunks]]' [[Time Machine]] and save energy during the time that he had to wait for the [[Android]]s. Then there was [[Super Buu]], who transformed into his original [[Kid Buu]] state after [[Majin Buu|his counterpart]] was removed from his body.
+
Transformation is not always intended for increasing abilities. Some beings are known to transform in order to limit their abilities rather than increasing them. An example of this is [[Frieza]], who was first seen in a suppressed state, being that his fourth form was his original state, and the form that he is first seen in was actually a transformed one. Cell demonstrated a similar ability when he reverted to a larval state in order to fit in [[Future Trunks]]' [[Time Machine]] and save energy during the time that he had to wait for the [[Android]]s. Then there was [[Super Buu]], who transformed into his original [[Kid Buu]] state after [[Majin Buu|his counterpart]] was removed from his body.
   
 
==''Ki'' users==
 
==''Ki'' users==
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===Earthlings===
 
===Earthlings===
 
{{Main|Human}}
 
{{Main|Human}}
It is very uncommon to see an Earthling who uses ''ki'' energy, though several humans have been shown to acquire full mastery of the art. Among those are [[Yamcha]], [[Tien Shinhan]], [[Krillin]], [[Chiaotzu]] and [[Master Roshi]]. Another, lesser adept human is [[Videl]], who was taught basic flight from [[Gohan]] (she can [[Flight|fly]], but she is no match for [[Z Fighters]]). Other users include [[Spopovich]], [[Yamu]], and [[Olibu]] (although Spopovich and Yamu were [[List of Majins|Majins]] and do not really count, and Olibu may have learned the art in the [[Other World]]). Humans also have a natural disposition to detect the concentration of ''ki'' that their opponents possess (though the ability has to be learned).
+
It is very uncommon to see an Earthling who uses ''ki'' energy, though several humans have been shown to acquire full mastery of the art. Among those are [[Yamcha]], [[Tien Shinhan]], [[Krillin]], [[Chiaotzu]] and [[Master Roshi]]. Another, lesser adept human is [[Videl]], who was taught basic flight from Gohan (she can [[Flight|fly]], but she is no match for [[Z Fighters]]). Other users include [[Spopovich]], [[Yamu]], and [[Olibu]] (although Spopovich and Yamu were [[List of Majins|Majins]] and do not really count, and Olibu may have learned the art in the [[Other World]]). Humans also have a natural disposition to detect the concentration of ''ki'' that their opponents possess (though the ability has to be learned).
   
 
[[File:VidelKi.png|thumb|Videl charging ''ki'' in her hands]]
 
[[File:VidelKi.png|thumb|Videl charging ''ki'' in her hands]]
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===Kais===
 
===Kais===
 
{{Main|Kai}}
 
{{Main|Kai}}
[[File:GhastelFlight.png|thumb|The demon Ghastel with ''ki'' spheres under his feet]]
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[[File:GhastelFlight.png|thumb|The demon [[Ghastel]] with ''ki'' spheres under his feet]]
 
A Kai's energy is mostly invisible. Two Kais have been seen using [[Kiai|invisible blasts]]; the first one was [[King Kai]], who used his invisible ''ki'' to assist his pupils in his training. The second was the [[Supreme Kai]], who thrust his hand forward and caused what appeared to be [[Energy's Last|a gust of wind]] to blow at [[Majin Buu]], having no effect whatsoever.
 
A Kai's energy is mostly invisible. Two Kais have been seen using [[Kiai|invisible blasts]]; the first one was [[King Kai]], who used his invisible ''ki'' to assist his pupils in his training. The second was the [[Supreme Kai]], who thrust his hand forward and caused what appeared to be [[Energy's Last|a gust of wind]] to blow at [[Majin Buu]], having no effect whatsoever.
   
 
===Godly ''ki''===
 
===Godly ''ki''===
A rare form of ''ki'' known as '''godly ''ki''''' is introduced in the movie ''[[Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods]]''. It has been shown to be far above the normal usage of ''ki''. The [[God of Destruction]] [[Beerus]], his mentor [[Whis]] (presumably), and [[Super Saiyan God]]s are able to use this form of ''ki'', all of them vastly surpassing everyone else. Those who can not use godly ''ki'' can not even sense godly ''ki''. It is unknown what exactly godly ''ki'' is or who is able to use it, since not even the [[Supreme Kai (race)|Supreme Kais]], who are gods as well, are able to use it, leading to the speculation that it may be a power reserved alone for warrior deities, like Super Saiyan Gods, the God of Destruction Beerus and his mentor Whis.
+
A rare form of ''ki'' known as '''godly ''ki''''' is introduced in the movie ''[[Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods]]''. It has been shown to be far above the normal usage of ''ki''. The [[God of Destruction]] [[Beerus]], his mentor [[Whis]] (presumably), and [[Super Saiyan God]]s are able to use this form of ''ki'', all of them vastly surpassing everyone else. Those who can not use godly ''ki'' are unable to sense godly ''ki''.
   
 
===Other===
 
===Other===
Extraterrestrial, monstrous creatures, and [[demon]]s are also sometimes able to use ''ki''.
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Extraterrestrial, monstrous creatures, and [[demon]]s are also able to use ''ki''.
   
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
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Blasting Soldiers 1.JPG|Bardock charges ''ki'' in his hand for a Rush Ki Wave
 
Blasting Soldiers 1.JPG|Bardock charges ''ki'' in his hand for a Rush Ki Wave
 
Kamehameha charge.png|Master Roshi gathers ''ki'' to perform a MAX Power Kamehameha
 
Kamehameha charge.png|Master Roshi gathers ''ki'' to perform a MAX Power Kamehameha
MasterRoshiS24.png|Jackie Chun (Roshi) concentrating his ''ki'' at the seashore
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MasterRoshiS24.png|Jackie Chun (Roshi) concentrating his ''ki''
  +
MurasakisSpecialTechnique.png|Murasaki prepares his Copy Technique
 
Roshi(KT).png|Master Roshi concentrating his ''ki'' at the seashore
 
Roshi(KT).png|Master Roshi concentrating his ''ki'' at the seashore
 
Ten.Ep.085.png|Tien showing his aura
 
Ten.Ep.085.png|Tien showing his aura
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NappaVsGokuEartgNV..png|Nappa with an aura as he attacks Goku
 
NappaVsGokuEartgNV..png|Nappa with an aura as he attacks Goku
 
Big Bang Cannon Charging.jpg|Vegeta charges ''ki'' in his hand
 
Big Bang Cannon Charging.jpg|Vegeta charges ''ki'' in his hand
  +
57-7.JPG|Vegeta uses ''ki'' to protect himself from Zarbon's Possibility Cannon
 
StrongGTrio2.png|A Namekian Warrior concentrates ''ki'' into his fist
 
StrongGTrio2.png|A Namekian Warrior concentrates ''ki'' into his fist
 
Crsuher Ball Creation.JPG|Jeice gathers ''ki'' to form a Crusher Ball
 
Crsuher Ball Creation.JPG|Jeice gathers ''ki'' to form a Crusher Ball
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The Ultimate Battle - Frieza Goku faceoff.png|Goku attacks Frieza with a energy kick
 
The Ultimate Battle - Frieza Goku faceoff.png|Goku attacks Frieza with a energy kick
 
757545.JPG|Krillin and Gohan channeling ''ki'' to Piccolo
 
757545.JPG|Krillin and Gohan channeling ''ki'' to Piccolo
FriezaGokuExplosiveWaveEp96.png|Frieza energizing his aura in form dome
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FriezaGokuExplosiveWaveEp96.png|Frieza energizing his aura in dome form
 
Namek's Destruction - Goku vs Frieza.PNG|Frieza and Goku having an energy fight
 
Namek's Destruction - Goku vs Frieza.PNG|Frieza and Goku having an energy fight
 
Namek's Destruction - Frieza withdrawing.PNG|Frieza radiating his aura
 
Namek's Destruction - Frieza withdrawing.PNG|Frieza radiating his aura
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Extreme Measures - Garlic Jr. prepares.PNG|Garlic Jr. energizing his fist with ''ki''
 
Extreme Measures - Garlic Jr. prepares.PNG|Garlic Jr. energizing his fist with ''ki''
 
GohanBlockingGarlicJr'sAttack.jpg|Garlic Jr.'s ''ki'' punch blocked by Gohan
 
GohanBlockingGarlicJr'sAttack.jpg|Garlic Jr.'s ''ki'' punch blocked by Gohan
Lord Slug Light Orb.JPG|Lord Slug tests out his newfound youth by charging Ki in his hands
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Lord Slug Light Orb.JPG|Lord Slug tests out his newfound youth by charging ''ki'' in his hands
 
Piccolo gives Goku his power.png|Piccolo channeling his ''ki'' to Goku in ''Lord Slug''
 
Piccolo gives Goku his power.png|Piccolo channeling his ''ki'' to Goku in ''Lord Slug''
 
GohanEndures.png|Gohan blocks the Goku's Kamehameha with a ''ki'' sphere
 
GohanEndures.png|Gohan blocks the Goku's Kamehameha with a ''ki'' sphere
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Dbz246(for dbzf.ten.lt) 20120418-20494926.jpg|Gotenks' bio-electricity
 
Dbz246(for dbzf.ten.lt) 20120418-20494926.jpg|Gotenks' bio-electricity
 
Dbz246(for dbzf.ten.lt) 20120418-20475580.jpg|Gotetenks charges even more his ''ki''
 
Dbz246(for dbzf.ten.lt) 20120418-20475580.jpg|Gotetenks charges even more his ''ki''
  +
271-3.JPG|Super Vegito charges ''ki'' in his hands
  +
273-2.JPG|Super Buu holding ''ki'' spheres in his hands
  +
4 Super Saiyans.jpg|Goku's first attempt to turn Super Saiyan God
  +
5SSJ(BoG).jpg|Goku's second attempt to turn Super Saiyan God
  +
vlcsnap-2014-11-24-22h01m27s50.png|Super Saiyan God Goku's aura
 
Goku Vs. Rilldo.JPG|Goku charges ''ki'' in his hand
 
Goku Vs. Rilldo.JPG|Goku charges ''ki'' in his hand
  +
Dragon Ball GT 1 29 The Fall Of The Saiyans 839600.jpg|Baby Vegeta receives Saiyan energy to transform
Family Bonds - Goku energy.png|SS4 Goku receives energy from Z Fighters
 
  +
TFotS - RDB Charge.png|Super Baby Vegeta gathers energy to further transform
  +
2011-11-16 222949.png|Pan, Goten, Gohan and Trunks giving Goku energy
 
Family Bonds - Goku energy.png|SS4 Goku receives energy from his friends
 
Baby17.JPG|Piccolo channeling his ''ki'' to Goku perform the Instant Transmission
 
Baby17.JPG|Piccolo channeling his ''ki'' to Goku perform the Instant Transmission
 
SuperSaiyan4Vegito2.png|Super Saiyan 4 Gogeta's aura
 
SuperSaiyan4Vegito2.png|Super Saiyan 4 Gogeta's aura
 
PollutionAura1.png|Omega Shenron's negative aura
 
PollutionAura1.png|Omega Shenron's negative aura
  +
BT3 Ki Charge.png|Super Saiyan 2 Vegeta and Goku charging their energy in ''Budokai Tenkaichi 3''
 
Goku 3 Burst Limit.jpg|Goku's ''ki'' forming an "aura" in ''Burst Limit''
 
Goku 3 Burst Limit.jpg|Goku's ''ki'' forming an "aura" in ''Burst Limit''
 
Yamcha 3 Burst Limit.jpg|Yamcha's ''ki'' forming an aura in ''Burst Limit''
 
Yamcha 3 Burst Limit.jpg|Yamcha's ''ki'' forming an aura in ''Burst Limit''

Revision as of 20:43, 24 November 2014

BBD5

Goku gathers ki between his hands

Ki (気; pronounced "Kee"), also known as chi or simply energy (エネルギー, enerugī), is a force energy used by Dragon Ball characters. This force also bears some realistic tendencies being that it is "used" in the real life martial arts, such as Kung Fu and Tai Chi.

Overview

Origin

FriezaThreatens.Ep

Frieza charges a small ki sphere on his finger

Ki is also known as "latent energy" or "fighting power." The term is the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese term "Chi" (氣), which directly translates as "life force." This force is a tangible energy inside every living being, with its major focus being in the center of the body. By drawing it out, an individual is able to manipulate it and use it outside the body. Ki can be used for many different techniques. Because there are physical limits to the strength of the body itself, it is necessary to increase one's ki to overcome this barrier and become stronger.[1] Usually, the more concentrated the masses are, the more time the user requires to draw it out by powering up. When fighters gather ki, they are able to gain enhanced strength, speed, endurance, and can increase the power of their attacks to inflict greater damage to opponents. Normally, the more the ki is increased, the harder it is to control, so ki control is also important.[1] Energy can be lost when the user sustains injuries, as exclaimed by Gohan when he loses over half of his maximum energy supply when hit by Super Perfect Cell's Time to Die attack.

According to Akira Toriyama, ki is made up of three components: Genki (元気; lit. "Energy"), Yūki (勇気; lit. "Courage") and Shōki (正気; lit. "Mind"). Also, ki can be "positive" or "negative", depending on the user.

Name

In the English version of the anime, the term ki is rarely used, usually referred to as "Spirit Energy" or "Energy" instead. However, it is referred to by name in video games, even in the English versions. It is called W in the NES game Dragon Ball 3: Gokuden. It is referred to as airbending in Dragonball Evolution.

When using Super Saiyan Goku (Naruto Sage Mode Costume) in Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Z, he refers to it as Chakra instead of ki or energy.

Appearances

Ki comes in a variety of colors. The most common color in the series is white; other colors include yellow, red, purple, orange, blue, green, pink, and black. These colors vary on the race, technique being used, species that the character is, and/or the purity of the user's heart. It can also resemble electrical sparks or even sparkles of light.

History

MutaitoKi

Master Mutaito using ki

The term ki was first introduced by Master Mutaito in a filler Dragon Ball episode where Goku travels back in time and learns about ki.[2] The first usage of it is seen when Master Roshi performs an energy blast called the Kamehameha in order to extinguish the fire on Fire Mountain: by drawing his ki energy into the palms of his hands, Roshi is able to expel an explosive mass of visible ki energy.[3][4] This was the birth of the energy attacks in Dragon Ball.

Usage

Auras

Main article: Aura Charge Items

Nappa Lightning Aura 2

Nappa powering up with a lighting aura

Auras of ki radiate from the user when increasing the concentration of it inside their body. Warriors (excluding Androids) have a limit to the ki that their bodies can withstand, but the capacity for ki can be increased through mental and physical training. Some techniques (such as the Kaio-ken) rapidly increase the concentration of ki in the body, enabling the user to fight at a strength level that far exceeds their regular limits for a limited period of time. Auras can displace solid matter.

Gogeta aura

Gogeta's aura

In the anime, auras are sometimes used for comical effect; for example, during the Garlic Jr. Saga, Goku's wife Chi-Chi angrily produces a red-colored (similar to the aura produced by the Kaio-ken) aura after being angered by Maron (Krillin's girlfriend); though it appeared similar to the Kaio-Ken, its red color was likely intended to comically represent Chi-Chi's anger.

In Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3, there are several Aura Charge Z-items that change the default color of a character's aura to a different one (for example, Aura Charge Red gives the character a red Kaio-ken-like aura) or grants an aura effect on characters (like Androids) who do not possess an aura. There is also the bio-electric aura produced by the Super Saiyan 2 and Super Saiyan 3 levels (and Cell as well). In the anime, lightning auras are sometimes placed randomly on various characters, regardless of their transformation or power level.

Ki attacks

Main articles: Ki Blast and Energy Wave

Transformation

Main article: Transformation

Vegeta gt ssj2

Vegeta using his ki to transform into a Super Saiyan

Depending on their genetic inheritance, some beings are able to transform. However, not all beings are able to transform at will; in some instances, there must be certain environmental conditions required for their transformation (like moonlight for Great Ape transformations) or emotional upheaval (for Super Saiyans). By transforming, a person can change the limits of their regular body. Effects of transformations usually include alterations in strength and ki capacity. Some other effects may include differences in speed and durability. The most common transformation is the Super Saiyan transformation, which is only accessible to certain Saiyans and Saiyan/Human hybrids. The negative aspect of most transformations is that the process itself consumes energy. The effect of energy loss when dealing with Super Saiyan transformations can be limited through training.

Transformation is not always intended for increasing abilities. Some beings are known to transform in order to limit their abilities rather than increasing them. An example of this is Frieza, who was first seen in a suppressed state, being that his fourth form was his original state, and the form that he is first seen in was actually a transformed one. Cell demonstrated a similar ability when he reverted to a larval state in order to fit in Future Trunks' Time Machine and save energy during the time that he had to wait for the Androids. Then there was Super Buu, who transformed into his original Kid Buu state after his counterpart was removed from his body.

Ki users

Saiyans

Main article: Saiyan

GokuKamehamehaWave

Goku using a form of ki known as a Kamehameha Wave

Saiyans and their hybrid counterparts are naturally adept at using ki. They generally have no difficulty manipulating their energy, and have even evolved to have the ability to increase it numerous times in battle without much effort. This is much unlike Humans who usually spend themselves after the first increase. However, unlike Namekians, Saiyans don't seem to have a natural ability to detect ki by sensing ki signatures. That ability must be acquired through learning.

Namekians

Main article: Namekian

TNamek20

Namekians charging ki in their hands

Although Namekians are generally not as strong as Saiyans, their ability to use ki is as good as that of Saiyans. Namekians use ki in more mystical ways than Saiyans do, but use it in the same manner when fighting. Namekians also are able to naturally detect ki energy by sensing the power of it. Namekians also are able to sense the "evil" in a being's ki.

Earthlings

Main article: Human It is very uncommon to see an Earthling who uses ki energy, though several humans have been shown to acquire full mastery of the art. Among those are Yamcha, Tien Shinhan, Krillin, Chiaotzu and Master Roshi. Another, lesser adept human is Videl, who was taught basic flight from Gohan (she can fly, but she is no match for Z Fighters). Other users include Spopovich, Yamu, and Olibu (although Spopovich and Yamu were Majins and do not really count, and Olibu may have learned the art in the Other World). Humans also have a natural disposition to detect the concentration of ki that their opponents possess (though the ability has to be learned).

VidelKi

Videl charging ki in her hands

Due to their unnatural occurrences and mainly stemming from Mr. Satan's claims, around Age 767-Age 774, Earthlings would come to believe that all ki-based techniques are just tricks. In the events leading up to the computer game Dragon Ball Online, in Age 804, Gohan wrote a book called "Groundbreaking Science" which reveals his studies on advanced martial arts and ki control. As of Age 1000, many Humans fight using ki attacks; including powering up and raising their ki, producing energy waves and spheres, discs, and self-destruction techniques. The Kikoukenjutsu Sword School, founded by Trunks and Goten to educate Earth's newer generation of warriors, focuses on the principle of channeling ki energy through swords. Tien's newly re-established New Crane School focuses on high spiritual damages; in some instances, techniques where the user must sacrifice health to produce the powerful attacks. All playable races, including Humans, can use the Kaio-ken technique, which constantly drains the user's HP (health) and EP (ki).

Androids

Main article: Android Androids generally have an unnatural source of ki, so sometimes their ki capacity is unlimited. Most of the time, because it is unnatural, it is unable to be detected by sensing. Conversely, most Androids are not able to detect other sources of ki by sensing. Instead, they must have special devices to do that. Some Androids can absorb other forms of ki, as well as energy from other life forms.

Androids like #17 and #18 are human, yet cybernetic modifications to their bodies have given them a near limitless supply of ki.

Kais

Main article: Kai

GhastelFlight

The demon Ghastel with ki spheres under his feet

A Kai's energy is mostly invisible. Two Kais have been seen using invisible blasts; the first one was King Kai, who used his invisible ki to assist his pupils in his training. The second was the Supreme Kai, who thrust his hand forward and caused what appeared to be a gust of wind to blow at Majin Buu, having no effect whatsoever.

Godly ki

A rare form of ki known as godly ki is introduced in the movie Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods. It has been shown to be far above the normal usage of ki. The God of Destruction Beerus, his mentor Whis (presumably), and Super Saiyan Gods are able to use this form of ki, all of them vastly surpassing everyone else. Those who can not use godly ki are unable to sense godly ki.

Other

Extraterrestrial, monstrous creatures, and demons are also able to use ki.

Gallery

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 Chōzenshū 1, 2013
  2. Dragon Ball episode 129, "The Time Room"
  3. Dragon Ball chapter 14, "Kame Kame Kame Kame Kame Chameleon"
  4. Dragon Ball episode 8, "The Kamehameha Wave"