Physics - Elastic Potential Energy

Work done and energy in a spring

What is the area under a force-extension graph?

Work done.

The energy put into a spring by stretching it is called?

Elastic potential energy.

Stretching a spring over a distance is doing what in relation to work done?

Applying a force over a distance.

What does the area of the triangle represent?

Work done.

What is the formula for the area of the triangle?

\[\frac{1}{2}Fx\]

The formula for the area of the triangle is $\frac{1}{2}Fx$. How could you also write $F$?

\[F = kx\]

Substitute $F = kx$ into $\frac{1}{2}Fx$?

\[\frac{1}{2}kx^2\]

What is the formula for elastic potential energy?

\[E = \frac{1}{2}kx^2\]

Elastic potential energy is directly proportional to…?

\[E \propto x^2\]

If you double extension, what happens to the elastic potential energy?

It quadruples.

How could you calculate the velocity of a compressed spring being released?

Equate kinetic energy to elastic potential energy.