P5 - Forces and Elasticity

What happens when you apply a force to an object to change its shape?

Stretches, compresses or bends the object.

What are the two types of deformation?

Elastic and inelastic deformation.

What is elastic deformation?

When the object returns to its original shape and length after the forces have been removed.

What is inelastic deformation?

When the object doesn’t return to its original shape and length even after the forces have been removed.

Where does energy transferred from stretching, compressing or bending an object go?

Elastic potential energy.

What is the relationship between extension and force on a string?

Directly proportional.

What is the equation linking force, extension and spring constant?

force (N) = spring constant (N/m) * extension (m), or F = ke

What affects the spring constant of a material?

A stiffer spring has a greater spring constant.

What happens to the relationship between force and extension of a spring when it inelastically deforms?

Past the limit of proportionality, the extension is no longer proportional to the force.