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.

A stretched rubber band can do some work while coming back to its normal position, so we can say that the stretched rubber band has gained some energy because of stretching. This is elastic potential energy. A rubber band at its natural length while lying on the table does not have any ability to do some work, that is it does not have any energy.

A catapult (gulet) works on the principle elastic potential energy. A catapult has a thick rubber band whose two ends are tied to the two arms of the catapult. The band is pulled while holding a small object in its fold.

When the band is stretched it gains some potential energy. As the band is released it comes back to its normal position. While doing so it gives a push to the small object, which in turn gains some kinetic energy and accelerates at a great speed while leaving the catapult.

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

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
View Explanation
Explanation
Question : 2

A catapult works on the principle _________________.

Right Option : B
View Explanation
Explanation
Question : 3

Which of the following statements are true

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Elastic potential energy is never negative whether due to extension or to compression. instrument works on the principle of elastic potential energy.

Right Option : D
View Explanation
Explanation
 
 


Students / Parents Reviews [20]