Elastic Potential Energy (Edexcel GCSE Physics)

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Elastic Potential Energy

  • When a spring is stretched or compressed by a force, work is done by the spring
  • Work done is the transfer of energy
    • The energy is transferred to its elastic potential energy store

Compressed and Stretched Spring, downloadable IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

When a spring is stretched or compressed, there is work done and elastic potential energy is stored

  • Elastic potential energy is defined as:

The energy stored in an elastic object when work is done on the object

  • Provided the spring is not inelastically distorted (i.e has not exceeded its limit of proportionality), the work done on the spring and its elastic potential energy stored are equal

  • The work done, or the elastic potential energy stored, while stretching or compressing a spring can be calculated using the equation:

E = ½ kx2

  • Where:
    • E = elastic potential energy (energy transferred in stretching) in joules (J)
    • k = spring constant in newtons per metre (N/m)
    • x = extension in metres (m)

Elastic Potential Energy GCSE, downloadable IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

The elastic potential energy in a stretched spring depends on its spring constant and extension

  • This equation is only for springs that have not been stretched beyond their limit of proportionality
    • The term x2 means that if the extension is doubled then the work done is quadrupled
    • This is because 22 = 4

Worked example

A mass is attached to the bottom of a hanging spring with a spring constant k and 0.2 J of work is done to stretch it by 4.5 cm.Calculate the spring constant, k for this spring.

Examiner Tip

Remember: when calculating the work done the extension, x, is squared (x2)!

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.