Super quick question on spring and energy conservation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the conservation of energy in relation to springs, specifically seeking the correct equation for the change in spring potential energy. The potential energy of a spring is given by Us = 1/2 Kx^2, where K is the spring constant and x is the displacement from equilibrium. To find the change in spring potential energy, one must calculate the difference between the potential energy at two different displacements. The conversation emphasizes applying a similar approach as with gravitational potential energy, where the change is determined by the difference in energy at two positions. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving problems related to energy conservation in spring systems.
I_LoveCasey!
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Super quick question on spring and energy conservation!

Homework Statement


What does conservation of energy in equation form look like for spring?


Homework Equations



i know that [delta]K= k-k0
i know that [delta]Ug=mgh-mgh0

idk on [delta]Us= ...

The s,g stand for subscripts

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought that Us=1/2Kx^2 but it's not right
 
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Hi I_LoveCasey!,

I_LoveCasey! said:

Homework Statement


What does conservation of energy in equation form look like for spring?


Homework Equations



i know that [delta]K= k-k0
i know that [delta]Ug=mgh-mgh0

idk on [delta]Us= ...

The s,g stand for subscripts

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought that Us=1/2Kx^2 but it's not right

That is the formula for the potential energy of a spring. So if the spring displacement goes from x0 to x, what is the change in the springs potential energy?

(Do the same kind of thing that you did for the gravitational potential energy--the formula for gravitational potential energy is Ug=mgh, and so the change is the two terms that you have in your post.)
 

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