a spring with a spring constant of 4 newtons per meter is compressed by a force of 1.2 newtons. what is the total elastic potential energy stored in this compressed spring
To calculate the total elastic potential energy stored in a compressed spring, we need to use the formula:
Elastic Potential Energy (PE) = 1/2 * k * x^2
Where:
- PE is the elastic potential energy.
- k is the spring constant.
- x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position.
In this case, the spring constant (k) is given as 4 newtons per meter, and the force applied to compress the spring is 1.2 newtons. To find the displacement (x) of the spring, we can use Hooke's law:
F = k * x
Rearranging the equation, we get:
x = F / k
Substituting the given values, we have:
x = 1.2 N / 4 N/m
x = 0.3 meters
Now we can calculate the total elastic potential energy (PE):
PE = 1/2 * k * x^2
PE = 1/2 * 4 N/m * (0.3 meters)^2
PE = 1/2 * 4 N/m * 0.09 meters^2
PE = 0.18 joules
Therefore, the total elastic potential energy stored in the compressed spring is 0.18 joules.
The School Subject should be clearly stated. What IS this --- science, math, etc.?
Sra