Elastic Potential Energy

A series of free GCSE/IGCSE Physics Notes and Lessons.

Elastic Potential Energy

The following diagram gives the formula for elastic potential energy. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions on how to use the formula.

 

In this lesson, we will

• Describe what is meant by elastic potential energy.
• Calculate the elastic potential energy stored in a stretched spring.

When we stretch a spring, we are applying a force to change the length of the spring.
We are putting energy in to stretch the spring. The stretched spring is storing this energy which is called elastic potential energy.

E_e = 0.5 × k × e²

Example:
A spring has an extension of 20 cm. Calculate the elastic potential energy stored in the spring (k = 100 N/m).

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