What is the Elastic Potential Energy Stored in a Compressed Spring?

AI Thread Summary
To find the elastic potential energy stored in a compressed spring, the formula Ep = 1/2 kx² is used, where k is the spring constant and x is the compression distance. In this case, a force of 5.00 N compresses the spring by 5.00 cm (0.05 m), allowing the calculation of the spring constant k as 100 N/m. Substituting k and x into the energy formula yields an elastic potential energy of 0.125 J. Understanding the relationship between force, spring constant, and compression is crucial for solving similar problems. The calculated energy reflects the work done in compressing the spring.
kelly242
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Homework Statement



A force of 5.00 N compresses a spring 5.00 cm. What is the elastic potential energy stored in the compressed spring?

Homework Equations



Ep=1/2kx2

The Attempt at a Solution



Epelastic needs to calculated. I really do not know how to get there. K=f/x
k=5N/ 0.05m
100 N/m
the answer is actually 0.125 J
 
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