What is the Potential Energy of a Twisted Spiral Spring?

In summary, the conversation is about finding the potential energy of a spiral spring that has been twisted by 7° with an average torque of 60 Nm. The person asking the question is unsure how to find the spring constant and asks for help. The other person suggests using a formula for rotational motion to find the potential energy.
  • #1
Sumbhajee
15
0

Homework Statement



A spiral spring is twisted from its equilibrium position through θ = 7° by an average torque of 60 Nm. What is its potential energy in Joules?
http://schubert.tmcc.edu/res/msu/mmp/kap8/picts/spring2.gif

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I am not even sure how this is possible without the spring constant.. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
You know the torque and how much the string is twisted. Surely you can find the spring constant?
 
  • #3
In linear motion problems we have a formula for work in terms of force and displacement. You need to find the formula that is analogous to this but used for rotational motion.
 

Related to What is the Potential Energy of a Twisted Spiral Spring?

1. What is potential energy in joules?

Potential energy in joules is a measure of the stored energy an object has due to its position or state. It is the energy that an object has the potential to convert into other forms, such as kinetic energy.

2. How is potential energy in joules calculated?

Potential energy in joules is calculated by multiplying the object's mass (m) by the acceleration due to gravity (g) and the height (h) of the object. The formula for potential energy is PE = mgh, where g is approximately 9.8 m/s^2.

3. What are some examples of potential energy in joules?

Some examples of potential energy in joules include a stretched spring, a raised object, a compressed gas, and a charged battery. In each of these cases, the objects have the potential to convert their stored energy into other forms.

4. How does potential energy in joules relate to kinetic energy?

Potential energy and kinetic energy are two forms of energy that are interrelated. When an object has potential energy, it has the potential to convert it into kinetic energy as it moves or changes its state. This means that potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa.

5. Can potential energy in joules be negative?

Yes, potential energy in joules can be negative. This occurs when the object's position or state is below a reference point. For example, if an object is below ground level, it would have negative potential energy. However, this does not change the fact that the object has stored energy that can be converted into other forms.

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