Calculating Work on a Stretched Spring

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of work done by a restoring force when a certain spring is stretched beyond its proportional limit. The formula for the restoring force is F=-kx+βx3, and the values of k and β are given. However, the problem is missing the stretch distance of the proportional limit, which is necessary to determine the appropriate formula to use. Thus, the correct answer cannot be calculated without this information.
  • #1
shrutij
25
0

Homework Statement


When a certain spring is stretched beyond its proportional limit, the restoring force satisfies the equation F=-kx+βx3. If k=8.7 N/m and β=95 N/m3, calculate the work done by this force when the spring is stretched 0.105 m.


Homework Equations


W= F*d


The Attempt at a Solution


I found F by plugging in the values of k, β and x=0.105 m to get -1.02. The negative for the force value makes sense here since it is a restoring force acting in the negative direction. Am i wrong in this reasoning?
My answer is wrong, though since when I try W=F*d; =-1.02*.105, I get -0.107 J, which is wrong. Help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I am not an expert on this, but surely the formula is F = -kx for x between 0 and the proportional limit, then the more complex formula beyond that.
And you can't do the problem without knowing the stretch distance of the proportional limit so you know where to switch formulas.
 
  • #3
Delphi51 said:
I am not an expert on this, but surely the formula is F = -kx for x between 0 and the proportional limit, then the more complex formula beyond that.
And you can't do the problem without knowing the stretch distance of the proportional limit so you know where to switch formulas.
That sounds logical to me. The problem is missing one vital piece of information.

shrutij, what is the given correct answer?
 

FAQ: Calculating Work on a Stretched Spring

What is the formula for calculating work on a stretched spring?

The formula for calculating work on a stretched spring is W = 1/2kx^2, where W is the work done, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the spring.

How is the work done on a stretched spring related to its potential energy?

The work done on a stretched spring is equal to the change in potential energy of the spring. This is because potential energy is stored in the spring as it is stretched or compressed, and this energy is released when the spring returns to its original position.

What is the unit of measurement for work on a stretched spring?

The unit of measurement for work on a stretched spring is joules (J). This is because work is defined as the product of force and distance, and both of these quantities are measured in standard units of newtons (N) and meters (m), respectively.

How does the work done on a stretched spring change if the spring constant is increased?

If the spring constant is increased, the spring will become stiffer and require more force to stretch it a certain distance. This means that the work done on the spring will also increase, as the spring will store more potential energy at the same displacement.

What is the work done on a stretched spring if the displacement is zero?

If the displacement of the spring is zero, then the work done on the spring will also be zero. This is because work is defined as the product of force and distance, and if there is no displacement, then no work is being done on the spring.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
805
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
1K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Back
Top