Is Work Done by a Spring Positive or Negative? Understanding Spring Dynamics
Discover the nature of work done by springs—when it is positive and negative, based on Hooke's Law and elastic potential energy.
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Work done by a spring can be positive or negative. When you compress or stretch a spring, the work done against the spring’s force is positive. Conversely, when the spring returns to its equilibrium position, the work done by the spring is negative. This behavior aligns with Hooke’s Law and the concept of elastic potential energy.
FAQs & Answers
- What is positive work in relation to springs? Positive work occurs when a force is applied to compress or stretch a spring, moving it away from its equilibrium position.
- What does negative work mean for springs? Negative work by a spring happens when it returns to its equilibrium position, releasing energy in the process.
- How does Hooke's Law relate to work done by springs? Hooke's Law describes the relationship between the force exerted by a spring and its displacement, supporting the concepts of positive and negative work based on how the spring is manipulated.
- What is elastic potential energy in springs? Elastic potential energy is the stored energy in a spring when it is compressed or stretched, which can be converted to kinetic energy when released.