Calculate Potential Energy of 8.4N Spring w/31.9 N/m Constant

In summary, the potential energy stored in a spring can be calculated using the equation PE = mgh, where m is the mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the object. To calculate the mass, the force (F) can be divided by the acceleration due to gravity (g). In this specific scenario, the force (F) is equal to 8.4 N and the spring constant (k) is 31.9 N/m. To find the compressed displacement, the formula F = -kx can be used. However, if there is no information about the mass or height, it is not possible to calculate the potential energy.
  • #1
Rha1828
11
0
A force of 8.4 N holds an ideal spring with a 31.9 N/m spring constant in compression. How much potential energy is stored in the spring?

I would think it would be PE =mgh
to get m you divide the force/g
but now I am not sure what to do after that.
Any help would be great!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Firstly how is F (the force) related to the extension (or compression) of an ideal spring?
 
  • #3
you will have to find the compressed displacement by the formula f=-kx
 
  • #4
I'm not sure. My Teacher just through this problem at us without much explanation. We haven't even covered springs. I'll look into your question though I am not sure I fully understand it.
Thanks!
 
  • #5
OH! Now I can understand that! Fx= -kx...Thank you I will try and see what I get!
 

FAQ: Calculate Potential Energy of 8.4N Spring w/31.9 N/m Constant

How do you calculate the potential energy of a spring?

The potential energy of a spring can be calculated using the formula PE = 1/2kx^2, where PE is the potential energy, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.

What are the units for potential energy and spring constant?

Potential energy is measured in joules (J), while spring constant is measured in newtons per meter (N/m).

Can you explain the given values of 8.4N and 31.9 N/m?

The value of 8.4N represents the force applied to the spring, while 31.9 N/m is the spring constant, which indicates the stiffness of the spring. These values are necessary for calculating the potential energy of the spring.

How does the displacement affect the potential energy of a spring?

The potential energy of a spring is directly proportional to the square of the displacement. This means that as the displacement increases, the potential energy also increases.

Is there a maximum potential energy for a spring?

Yes, there is a maximum potential energy for a spring. This occurs when the spring is stretched or compressed to its maximum displacement, and the potential energy is at its highest point. Any further increase in displacement will result in a decrease in potential energy.

Similar threads

Distribution of Energy when work is done on a system of 2 masses connected by a spring
Replies
17
Views
615
Why is my method for finding the spring constant incorrect?
Replies
17
Views
2K
Why can we move the spring with constant speed when we apply a force?
Replies
29
Views
2K
Initial velocity of bird landing on horizontal wire modeled as spring
Replies
7
Views
433
Energy stored in a double spring system
Replies
17
Views
821
Spring Problem Involving Variables and Constants Only
Replies
3
Views
884
Calculating the spring force constant K
Replies
14
Views
948
Find elastic energy in the compressed spring.
Replies
12
Views
2K
A rocket on a spring, related to potential/kinetic energy
Replies
3
Views
2K
How can I calculate the potential energy stored in a compressed spring?
Replies
4
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top