If a spring has a constant of 20N/m how much potential energy does it store if it is compressed 2m in joules? <3
To calculate the potential energy stored in a compressed spring, you can use the formula:
Potential Energy = (1/2) * k * x^2
Where:
- Potential Energy is the energy stored in the spring (in joules, J).
- k is the spring constant (in newtons per meter, N/m).
- x is the displacement or compression of the spring (in meters, m).
In this case, the spring constant is given as 20 N/m, and the compression is 2 m.
Plugging these values into the formula, we get:
Potential Energy = (1/2) * 20 N/m * (2 m)^2
= (1/2) * 20 N/m * 4 m^2
= 10 N/m * 4 m^2
= 40 N * m
Therefore, the potential energy stored in the compressed spring is 40 joules (J).