Elastic Potential Energy


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Elastic Potential Energy

Elastic Potential Energy : - This is a kind of potential energy which is due to a change in the shape of  body. The change in shape of a body can be brought about by stretching, compressing, bending and twisting the body. Some work has to be done to change the shape of a body. This work gets stored in the deformed body in the form of elastic potential energy.

For example, the energy stored in a stretched rubber band or a spring is elastic potential energy and is equal to the work done in stretching the rubber band or spring. When this deformed body is released, it attains its original shape and the potential energy is converted into some other form, usually in kinetic energy. Elastic potential energy is never negative whether due to extension or to compression.

 

                                                                      

Consider a massless spring whose length is l on its natural state. Now it is elongated by 'x' then the work done by external force will be   frac {1}{2}kx^2.

Similarly, if the spring is compressed by 'x' then also the work will be   frac {1}{2}kx^2   only.

So, the energy associated with the state of elongation or compression of a spring is called elastic potential energy of spring or simply potential energy (U).

      U=frac {1}{2}kx^2

                                                                   

 

Where 'k' is force constant of spring. It is also called spring factor, its unit is N/m or dyne/cm. Remember spring constant (k) is inversely proportional to the length of spring(l)

 i.e.   k:alpha ;frac{1}{l};;or;;kl;=; constant

                                                     

Sample Questions
(More Questions for each concept available in Login)
Question : 1

Which of the following instrument works on the principle of elastic potential energy.

Right Option : D
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Explanation
Question : 2

A stretched spring possesses

Right Option : B
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Explanation
Question : 3

Which of the following statements are not true for gaining elastic potential energy.

1. Due to a change in the shape of  body.

2. By stretching an object

3. By compressing an object

4. By bending an object

5. By pushing an object

6. By twisting an object

Right Option : D
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Explanation
 
 


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