Elastic potential energy

What is elastic potential energy?

Elastic potential energy is when we put in energy to stretch a spring and it stores that energy

What is this ‘stretch’ in a spring called?

The extension

What would happen if we plotted the extension of the spring against the force applied?

The force would be directly proportional to the extension.

What happens if we keep stretching the spring?

The limit of proportionality is reached and the force is no longer directly proportional to the extension.

What happens when we reach the limit of proportionality?

The spring will no longer return to its original position after being stretched.

What is the formula for elastic potential energy?

E = 0.5 x K x e²

What does the ‘K’ stand for in the elastic potential energy equation

Spring constant measured in Newton metres (N/m)

What does the ‘e’ stand for in the elastic potential energy equation

The extension measured in metres (m)