Elastic Potential Energy

• What is elastic potential energy?

  The energy stored in a stretched spring
• How is elastic potential energy calculated?

  Using the equation for a stretched spring
• What does the equation for elastic potential energy assume?

  That proportionality limit has not been exceeded
• What is the formula for elastic potential energy in a spring?

  • Elastic Potential Energy, $E_e =$$0.5 \times k \times x^2$
  • Where:
  • $E_e$ = elastic potential energy
  • $k$ = spring constant (N/m)
  • $x$ = extension of the spring (m)
• What does the variable $k$ represent in the elastic potential energy equation?


  The spring constant
• In what units is the spring constant $k$ measured?


  Newtons per meter (N/m)
• What does the variable $x$ represent in the elastic potential energy equation?


  The extension of the spring
• What happens to elastic potential energy as the extension of the spring increases?

  It increases quadratically with extension
• How does the elastic potential energy relate to the spring constant and extension?

  It is proportional to the square of extension
• What are the key components of the elastic potential energy equation?

  • Elastic potential energy $E_e$
  • Spring constant $k$
  • Extension $x$
  • Relationship: $E_e =$$0.5 \times k \times x^2$