🎡ap physics 1 review

Key Term: U = 1/2kx^2

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Definition: The equation U = 1/2kx^2 represents the potential energy stored in a spring that is compressed or stretched. It relates the amount of potential energy (U) to the spring constant (k) and the displacement from equilibrium position (x).

AP course connection

Topic 6: Unit 6 Overview: Simple Harmonic Motion

Unit 6

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Key Term: U = 1/2kx^2 Definition for AP Physics 1 | Fiveable