forces and elasticity

• What does elasticity refer to in materials?

  Elasticity refers to the ability of an object to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
• What are the two types of deformation that objects can undergo when force is applied?


  • Elastic deformation: the object returns to its original shape after being stretched or compressed.
  • Inelastic deformation: the object does not return to its original shape after the force is removed and is permanently deformed.
• What does Hooke's Law describe?


  Hooke's Law describes the behavior of elastic materials, such as springs, within their elastic limit.
• What is the formula for Hooke's Law?


  The formula for Hooke's Law is $F =$$kx$.
• What does Hooke's Law state about the extension of a spring?


  Hooke's Law states that the extension of a spring is directly proportional to the force applied, provided the material does not exceed its limit of proportionality.
• What is the spring constant?


  The spring constant $k$ is a measure of a spring's stiffness.
• How does the spring constant relate to the stiffness of a spring?


  The higher the spring constant, the stiffer the spring, and the more force required to compress it.
• What are the characteristics of stiff springs and flexible springs?


  • Stiff springs: have a high spring constant and require a large force to produce a small extension.
  • Flexible springs: have a low spring constant and require less force to produce a larger extension.
• How can you determine the spring constant from a force-extension graph?


  You can determine the spring constant by calculating the gradient of a straight line on the graph.
• What is the formula for elastic potential energy stored in a spring?


  The formula for elastic potential energy is $E_e =$$\frac{1}{2} k x^2$.
• When is elastic potential energy stored in a spring recoverable?

  Elastic potential energy is recoverable when the force is removed, as long as the material is within its elastic limit.