A Hooke's law spring is compressed 12.0 cm from equilibrium and the potential energy stored is 72.0 J.What is the spring constant in this case?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential energy stored in a spring is given by the formula PE = 1/2 k x^2, where k is the spring constant and x is the displacement from equilibrium. Rearranging for k gives k = 2PE / x^2. Substituting PE = 72.0 J and x = 0.12 m, we get k = 2(72.0) / (0.12)^2 = 10000 N/m.

A Hooke's Law Spring Is Compressed 12