Springs & Elastic Potential Energy definitions Flashcards

Energy stored in a spring when compressed or stretched, calculated as 1/2kx^2.

A measure of a spring's stiffness, denoted as k, used in calculating elastic potential energy.

The change in length of a spring from its equilibrium position, denoted as x.

The principle stating that the force exerted by a spring is proportional to its deformation.

The natural length of a spring where no external forces are applied, resulting in zero stored energy.

The amount by which a spring is compressed from its equilibrium position.

The velocity of an object released from a compressed or stretched spring.

The energy of an object due to its motion, calculated as 1/2mv^2.

Energy stored due to an object's position in a gravitational field, calculated as mgy.

The principle stating that total energy remains constant, combining kinetic and potential energies.

Forces like friction that cause energy dissipation, not conserved in mechanical energy equations.

An external force exerted on an object, such as pushing a block against a spring.

The force exerted by a spring, opposing deformation, calculated using Hooke's Law.

The distance at which a spring returns to its natural length after being deformed.

Stored energy in a system due to its position or configuration, such as in springs or gravity.