Calculating the Maximum Energy Stored in a Compressed Spring

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SUMMARY

The maximum energy stored in a compressed spring can be calculated using the formula E_e = 1/2 k x², where k is the spring constant and x is the compression distance. In this discussion, the spring constant is confirmed as 5.0 × 10^5 N/m, and the compression distance is 8 cm (0.08 m). The correct calculation yields an energy of 1.6 × 10^3 J, not 2.0 × 10^5 J, indicating a miscalculation in the user's approach. The discrepancy arises from incorrect unit conversion or application of the formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and spring constants
  • Familiarity with energy formulas in physics
  • Basic knowledge of unit conversions (meters to centimeters)
  • Ability to perform algebraic calculations
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  • Review the principles of Hooke's Law and its applications
  • Study the derivation and application of the spring energy formula E_e = 1/2 k x²
  • Practice unit conversion techniques, especially between centimeters and meters
  • Explore common mistakes in physics calculations and how to avoid them
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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding energy storage in mechanical systems.

Stroodle
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Hi there,

For this question, I've been asked to calculate the maximum energy a spring can store when compressed by 8cm. I've already found the spring constant to be [tex]5.0\times 10^5\ Nm^{-1}[/tex] (which is correct), so I thought it was just a simple matter of pluggung the values into the formula: [tex]E_e=\frac{1}{2}kx^2[/tex]

When I do this I get the answer: [tex]2.0\times10^5\ J[/tex], but the book says the answer is [tex]1.6\times10^3\ J[/tex]Thanks for your help
 
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