Calculating Elastic Potential Energy in a Vertical Spring System

In summary, an object with a mass of 1.60 kg is hanging from a vertical spring with a spring constant of 48.0 N/m. After being pulled 0.200 m downward and released from rest, the translational kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy, and total mechanical energy can be calculated for different vertical positions above the point of release. However, the calculation of the elastic potential energy is dependent on the distance the mass stretches the spring from its original position, which might require further information to determine.
  • #1
iceT
8
0
1.60 kg object is hanging from the end of a vertical spring. The spring constant is 48.0 N/m. The object is pulled 0.200 m downward and released from rest. Complete the table below by calculating the translational kinetic energy, the gravitational potential energy, the elastic potential energy, and the total mechanical energy E for each of the vertical positions indicated. The vertical positions h indicate distances above the point of release, where h = 0.

h (m)
0.0
0.200
0.400


ok..i got no problem with the translational kinetic energy, the gravitational potential energy and the total mechanical energy E...but I am confused about the elastic potential energy...i know its PE= 1/2KX^2
but how can i find X
 
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  • #2
x would be the distance from the equiblrium position.
 
  • #3
X = the distance the mass stretches the spring from the springs original position (no mass pulling on it)
 

FAQ: Calculating Elastic Potential Energy in a Vertical Spring System

What is elastic potential energy?

Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in an object when it is stretched or compressed. This type of energy is a result of the object's ability to return to its original shape after being deformed.

How is elastic potential energy calculated?

The formula for calculating elastic potential energy is Ee = 1/2kx², where Ee is elastic potential energy, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the object from its equilibrium position.

What factors affect the amount of elastic potential energy in an object?

The amount of elastic potential energy in an object depends on its mass, the spring constant, and the distance the object is stretched or compressed from its equilibrium position.

How is elastic potential energy different from other forms of potential energy?

Elastic potential energy is different from other forms of potential energy, such as gravitational potential energy or electrical potential energy, because it is a result of the object's deformation rather than its position or location.

What are some real-life examples of elastic potential energy?

Some examples of elastic potential energy include a stretched rubber band, a compressed spring, a bow and arrow, and a trampoline. In each of these examples, the object has the potential to return to its original shape after being deformed.

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