The potential energy formula for a spring represents the stored energy in a compressed or stretched spring. It is calculated by multiplying half of the spring constant (k) by the square of the displacement (x) from its equilibrium position.
Imagine a slingshot being pulled back before launching a projectile. The further you pull it back, the more potential energy is stored in the slingshot. Similarly, when you stretch or compress a spring, it gains potential energy that can be released later.
Spring constant (k): A measure of how stiff or flexible a spring is. It determines how much force is required to stretch or compress the spring by a certain amount.
Displacement (x): The distance from an object's equilibrium position to its current position. In the case of a spring, it refers to how much it has been stretched or compressed.
Elastic potential energy: The potential energy stored in an elastic material, such as a stretched or compressed spring. It arises due to deformation and can be recovered when the material returns to its original shape.
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