Understanding the Work Force of a Spring: Hooke's Law Explained
Explore how Hooke's Law defines the work done by springs, including formulas and energy concepts in mechanics.
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The work done by a spring is determined by Hooke's Law and is given by the formula: W = 0.5 k x^2, where W is the work, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position. This mathematical expression helps in calculating the energy stored or released by a spring when it is either compressed or stretched.
FAQs & Answers
- What is Hooke's Law? Hooke's Law states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the distance it is stretched or compressed from its equilibrium position. The formula is F = kx, where F is the force, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement.
- How do you calculate the work done by a spring? The work done by a spring can be calculated using the formula W = 0.5 k x^2, where W is the work, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.
- What is the spring constant? The spring constant, represented by k, is a measure of the stiffness of a spring. It indicates how much force is needed to stretch or compress the spring by a unit distance.
- What happens to the energy stored in a compressed or stretched spring? When a spring is compressed or stretched, it stores potential energy. This energy is released when the spring returns to its equilibrium position, which is described by Hooke's Law.