Question

(1/2)kx2, where k is the stiffness and x is the amount the spring is stretched, or compressed.

Answer 1

Answer:

Elastic Potential Energy

How much work is done when we stretch a spring a distance x from its equilibrium position?

First, we need to know about the general characteristics of a spring.

Experimentally, we find

This is known as Hooke's law

We might write this in equation form as F = k x. However, the force exerted by the spring is always in the opposite direction to the stretch (or compression) of the spring. Therefore, we write Hooke's law as

F = - k x

Answer 2

Explanation:

work is equal to force times distance, w=fd. For a spring, f=-kx. So a stretched out or compressed spring will exert more work when x is higher.