Energy conversions of a moving spring

In summary, the conversation discusses the energy changes involved in an oscillating spring, including SHM and the energy types of GPE, KE, and EPE. The participant has a question about the conversion of energy during the upward journey above the equilibrium position and whether there is a misunderstanding about compression distance. The response clarifies that external work is required to elongate and compress the spring, which is then stored as GPE and EPE. It is also explained that at the peak, all KE is converted to GPE, leading to the question of whether there is also EPE present. The final response clarifies that in order to start the oscillation, work must be done on the spring, and at the peak, all KE is
  • #1
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Homework Statement


The energy change of a oscillating spring. It involves SHM and the energy involved are GPE, KE and Elastic PE (EPE).


The Attempt at a Solution



I understand the other conversions e.g. On the downward journey above the equilibrium position, the gravitational p.e. is changed to elastic p.e. and k.e.

But there is one part I don't understand:
On the upward journey above the equilibrium position, the k.e. and elastic p.e. are changed to gravitational p.e.

Shouldnt there be elastic PE when it is compressed as in 'compressed energy'? ( k.e. changed to EPE and GPE) or is there a gross misunderstanding on my part? In hooke's law, the 'x' means extension but does it count compression distance?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
To elongate and compress a spring from its equilibrium position, external work has to be done. This work is stored in the form of GPE and EPE.
 
  • #3
But at the peak, the answer says there is ONLY GPE. But I though there is 'compression' energy or EPE there too?
 
  • #4
To start the oscillation, you have to do work on the spring, either by compressing or pulling it down. When it starts it oscillates due to gravitational force only. Hence at the peak All KE is converted to GPE.
 

What is the energy conversion of a moving spring?

The energy conversion of a moving spring involves the transformation of potential energy stored in the spring into kinetic energy as it moves.

What factors affect the energy conversion of a moving spring?

The energy conversion of a moving spring is affected by factors such as the mass of the spring, the amplitude of its motion, and the spring constant.

What is the equation for calculating the energy conversion of a moving spring?

The equation for calculating the energy conversion of a moving spring is E = 1/2kx2, where E is the energy, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position.

How does the energy conversion of a moving spring relate to Hooke's Law?

Hooke's Law states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to its displacement from its equilibrium position. This means that as the spring moves, the energy conversion from potential to kinetic energy follows Hooke's Law.

What are some real-life applications of energy conversions of a moving spring?

The energy conversion of a moving spring is used in various everyday objects, such as mattresses, trampolines, and pogo sticks. It is also utilized in more advanced technologies, such as shock absorbers and spring-powered clocks.

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