AP 1 Energy with Springs

Front

What is the formula for the potential energy stored in a spring?

Back

The potential energy (PE) stored in a spring is given by the formula PE = 1/2 k x², where k is the spring constant and x is the compression or extension of the spring.

Front

What is the spring constant (k)?

Back

The spring constant (k) is a measure of a spring's stiffness, defined as the force required to compress or extend the spring by a unit distance (N/m).

Front

How does the work done on a spring relate to its compression?

Back

The work done on a spring is equal to the potential energy stored in it, which is not linear; it increases quadratically with the amount of stretch or compression.

Front

What is the relationship between force and displacement in Hooke's Law?

Back

Hooke's Law states that the force (F) exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement (x) from its equilibrium position: F = kx.

Front

What happens to the kinetic energy of a particle when a constant force acts against its motion?

Back

The kinetic energy of the particle decreases when a constant force acts against its motion, as work is done against the direction of the particle's velocity.

Front

What is the principle of conservation of energy in the context of springs?

Back

The principle of conservation of energy states that the total mechanical energy (kinetic + potential) in a closed system remains constant, meaning energy can transform between kinetic and potential forms.

Front

How do you determine the stiffness of a spring?

Back

The stiffness of a spring can be determined by the spring constant (k), which can be calculated using the formula k = F/x, where F is the force applied and x is the displacement.

Front

What is the significance of maximum kinetic energy in a spring-mass system?

Back

Maximum kinetic energy in a spring-mass system occurs when the mass passes through the equilibrium position, where potential energy is at a minimum.

Front

What is the work-energy principle?

Back

The work-energy principle states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy.

Front

How do you calculate the work done on a spring?

Back

The work done on a spring when compressing or stretching it is calculated using the formula W = 1/2 k x².