How Much Elastic Energy Is Stored in the Achilles Tendon?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the elastic energy stored in the Achilles tendon, given its maximum tension and spring constant. The problem involves concepts from mechanics, specifically relating to Hooke's Law and energy storage in elastic materials.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Hooke's Law to find the displacement and subsequently the elastic energy. There are questions regarding unit conversions for both the spring constant and the calculated energy.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the necessity of unit conversions, while others are exploring the implications of their calculations and whether the signs of their results are correct. Multiple interpretations of the energy calculation are being examined.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing discussion about the correct units for the spring constant and the potential confusion regarding the sign of the energy value. The original poster's submission indicates a misunderstanding of the energy calculation process.

dvolpe
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Homework Statement


If the maximum tension in the Achilles tendon when the foot is sent down is 4.5 kN and the tendon's spring constant is 360 kN/M, calculate how much elastic energy is stored in it.

Homework Equations


F = kx
Hookes Law: Energy = 1/2*k*x squared

The Attempt at a Solution


Got x from F = kx x = 0.0125 m this is correct per submission.
Then substituted all values into Hookes law and got energy = .0281 J This was wrong according to submission.

If the elastic energy is a measure of the potential energy, how do I find that?
 
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Your formula for energy should work. Did you properly convert the units?
 
Yes I converted th distance x of 1.25 cm to .0125 m. The constant is 360 kN/m . Wait..do I need to convert the constant to N/m?
Which then makes the answer -.0281 KJ or -28.1 joules, correct?
 
Last edited:
dvolpe said:
Yes I converted th distance x of 1.25 cm to .0125 m. The constant is 360 kN/m . Wait..do I need to convert the constant to N/m?
Which then makes the answer -.0281 KJ or -28.1 joules, correct?


Yes. However your answer would be positive and not negative.
 

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