GCSE Physics Tutorial: Elastic Potential Energy Calculations

Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in an object when it is stretched or compressed. Understanding how to calculate elastic potential energy is essential for analysing systems involving springs, rubber bands, or any object exhibiting elastic behaviour. Let's explore the topic of elastic potential energy calculations and learn the relevant formulas and examples.

1. Elastic Potential Energy (EPE) Formula: The formula to calculate the elastic potential energy of an object is:

EPE = 0.5 * spring constant (k) * extension (e)^2

Where:

• EPE is the elastic potential energy in Joules (J).

• spring constant (k) is a measure of the stiffness of the spring in Newtons per meter (N/m).

• extension (e) is the displacement from the equilibrium position (resting position) in meters (m).

2. Elastic Potential Energy Calculation Examples:

Example 1: Calculate the elastic potential energy stored in a spring with a spring constant of 200 N/m when it is compressed by 0.2 meters.

Solution: EPE = 0.5 * 200 N/m * (0.2 m)^2 EPE = 0.5 * 200 N/m * 0.04 m^2 EPE = 4 Joules (J)

Example 2: Determine the elastic potential energy stored in a stretched rubber band with a spring constant of 50 N/m and an extension of 0.1 meters.

Solution: EPE = 0.5 * 50 N/m * (0.1 m)^2 EPE = 0.5 * 50 N/m * 0.01 m^2 EPE = 0.25 Joules (J)

3. Relationship between Elastic Potential Energy and Extension: The elastic potential energy of an object is directly proportional to the square of its extension. This means that doubling the extension will result in four times more elastic potential energy while halving the extension will lead to one-fourth of the original elastic potential energy.

4. Applications of Elastic Potential Energy:

• Elastic potential energy is utilised in various real-world applications, such as in the suspension systems of vehicles to absorb shocks and vibrations.

• It plays a role in sports equipment, like bows and catapults, where elastic potential energy is stored and then released to launch projectiles.

• Springs in various devices, such as clocks and toys, rely on elastic potential energy for their operation.

5. Safety Considerations: When dealing with objects or systems that involve elastic potential energy, caution should be exercised. For instance, when stretching or compressing a spring, it has the potential to snap back and cause injury. Always handle such objects with care and follow safety guidelines.

Conclusion: Elastic potential energy calculations are essential in GCSE Physics for understanding the energy stored in stretched or compressed objects. The formula EPE = 0.5 * k * e^2 allows us to quantify the elastic potential energy, providing valuable insights into the behaviour of elastic materials. Understanding elastic potential energy is not only important for academic purposes but also has practical applications in a wide range of everyday devices and systems.

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