Calc based physics spring problem

  • Thread starter Thread starter isaacsquared
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics Spring
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the potential energy stored in an ideal spring under compression. Given a force of 10 N and a spring constant of 20 N/m, the potential energy can be determined using the formula PE = 0.5 * k * x². The variable x represents the compression distance of the spring, which can be derived from the force and spring constant using the equation F = kx. Thus, the potential energy can be calculated once the compression distance is known.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law (F = kx)
  • Knowledge of potential energy formulas
  • Familiarity with spring constants
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the formula for potential energy of a spring (PE = 0.5 * k * x²)
  • Learn how to derive compression distance from force and spring constant
  • Explore real-world applications of Hooke's Law in engineering
  • Study the differences between ideal and non-ideal springs
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, engineers working with mechanical systems, and anyone interested in understanding spring mechanics and energy storage.

isaacsquared
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
1. A force of 10 N holds an ideal spring with a spring constant of 20 N/m in compression. The potential energy stored in the spring is what?



2. F=kx



3. I really am stumped. If I had the length of the spring then it'd be easy peasy (well... it still probably is. What am I missing?)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hint- What does the [tex]x[/tex] in [tex]F=kx[/tex] represent?

What is the equation for the potential energy of a spring?
 

Similar threads

Distribution of Energy when work is done on a system of 2 masses connected by a spring
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
Why Isn't the Spring Force Sum of Both Ends?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Why is my method for finding the spring constant incorrect?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
Why can we move the spring with constant speed when we apply a force?
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
3K
Springs and Pulleys - Force analysis
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
Problem with when to use Force and Energy. What compresses spring/
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Question about springs and rotational/translational energy
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Calculating the Energy Absorbed by a Spring in a Car Suspension System
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Spring Problem Involving Variables and Constants Only
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Time period of SHM & Energy conservation in pulley-spring-block system
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K