Elastic potential energy is a form of potential energy that is stored in an object when it is stretched or compressed. It is the energy that an elastic object, such as a spring or rubber band, has due to its deformation.
The formula for calculating elastic potential energy is E = 1/2kx^2, where E is the elastic potential energy, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.
The spring constant, k, is a measure of the stiffness of an elastic object. The higher the spring constant, the more energy is required to stretch or compress the object, resulting in a greater amount of elastic potential energy.
Yes, elastic potential energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, thermal energy, or sound energy, depending on the situation. For example, when a compressed spring is released, its elastic potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it returns to its original shape.
Some common examples of elastic potential energy include a compressed spring in a toy car, a stretched rubber band, a bungee cord before it is released, and a diving board before a diver jumps on it. These objects all have the potential to do work or cause movement due to their stored elastic potential energy.