The formula for elastic potential energy is (1/2)kx^2, all that I am asking is why is it not kx^2

Erin Larsen

Erin Larsen

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2022-08-21

The formula for elastic potential energy is ( 1 / 2 ) k x ² , all that I am asking is why is it not k x ² . Here is my logic. Let us say that k is 2   N / m which means that for the spring to move 1   m e t e r you have to apply 2 N of force, if you want to move the spring 2   m e t e r, then you have to apply 2 N and then 2 N again, so the work should be 2 N × 4 m = 8 J. Where did I go wrong?

Answer & Explanation

skinklil0

skinklil0

Beginner2022-08-22Added 5 answers

k is 2   N / m which means that for the spring to move   1 m e t e r you have to apply 2   N of force.
That's a misleading version of what k means, because when you first start stretching the spring almost no force is needed. k = 2   N / m means that when the spring has an extension of 1 m the tension in it is 2 N, and when the extension is 2 m the tension is 4 N and so on. The tension rises proportionally to the extension. As you stretch the spring the force you must apply rises continuously.
The work done stretching the spring (and therefore the elastic PE) is the area under the graph of force against extension.

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