What is the Elastic Potential Energy of a Toy Car's Spring?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the elastic potential energy stored in a toy car's spring with a force constant of 550 N/m when compressed by 0.012 m. The correct formula for spring potential energy is U = 1/2 kx^2, not the spring force formula. The user initially misapplied the spring force formula, leading to confusion about rounding their answer. It is emphasized that the final answer should include the correct units. Understanding the distinction between spring force and potential energy is crucial for accurate calculations.
Leah12
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The force constant of the spring in a child’s toy car is 550 N/m. How much elastic potential energy is stored in the spring if the spring is compressed a distance of 0.012m?

The formula for spring force is F =kx

When I do 550 x 0.012m I get 6.6 but I am supposed to round my answer four decimal places so I must be doing something wrong.
 
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You need to use the formula for spring potential energy, not spring force. (Look it up!)
 
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... and state the units in your answer.
 

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