What is the Potential Energy of a Twisted Spiral Spring?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the potential energy of a twisted spiral spring, the average torque of 60 Nm and the angle of twist at 7° are given. The spring constant is necessary for determining potential energy, and the user expresses uncertainty about how to derive it from the provided information. The discussion emphasizes the need for a formula analogous to work in linear motion, applicable to rotational motion. Understanding the relationship between torque, angle, and spring constant is crucial for solving the problem. The potential energy can ultimately be calculated once the spring constant is established.
Sumbhajee
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Homework Statement



A spiral spring is twisted from its equilibrium position through θ = 7° by an average torque of 60 Nm. What is its potential energy in Joules?
http://schubert.tmcc.edu/res/msu/mmp/kap8/picts/spring2.gif

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I am not even sure how this is possible without the spring constant.. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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You know the torque and how much the string is twisted. Surely you can find the spring constant?
 
In linear motion problems we have a formula for work in terms of force and displacement. You need to find the formula that is analogous to this but used for rotational motion.
 

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