1. What is Spring Potential Energy?

Spring potential energy is the energy stored in a spring when it is compressed or stretched from its equilibrium position. This energy can be released to do work when the spring returns to its original shape.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the spring potential energy formula:

Where:

• \( PE \) — Potential energy (Joules)
• \( k \) — Spring constant (N/m)
• \( x \) — Displacement from equilibrium (m)

Explanation: The formula shows that potential energy is proportional to the square of the displacement and directly proportional to the spring constant.

3. Importance of Potential Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating spring potential energy is essential in physics and engineering for designing spring-based systems, understanding energy conservation, and analyzing mechanical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the spring constant in N/m and displacement in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the spring constant?
A: The spring constant (k) measures the stiffness of a spring. A higher value indicates a stiffer spring.

Q2: Why is displacement squared in the formula?
A: The displacement is squared because the energy stored increases quadratically with displacement - doubling the displacement quadruples the energy stored.

Q3: What are typical units for spring potential energy?
A: Spring potential energy is typically measured in Joules (J) in the SI system.

Q4: Does this formula work for all types of springs?
A: This formula applies to ideal springs that obey Hooke's Law, where force is proportional to displacement.

Q5: Can potential energy be negative?
A: No, potential energy is always positive or zero since both k and x² are always positive values.