Forces and Elacisity

• The force applied

  The extension of an elastic object
• Limit of proportionality


  The point at which the extension is no longer directly proportional to the force applied
• Inelastic (plastic) deformation


  A deformation which results in the object being permanently stretched, the object doesn't return to its original shape when the force is removed
• Equation relating force, spring constant and extension

  Force = Spring Constant x Extension
• Units

  • Force (N), Spring Constant (N/m), Extension (m)
• Elastic potential energy


  The type of energy stored in a spring when it is stretched
• Compression

  Can replace extension in the equation for spring force