Key Term: U = 1/2kx^2

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).

Related terms

Spring Constant (k):

The spring constant measures how stiff or soft a spring is. It determines how much force is required to stretch or compress the spring.

Displacement (x):

Displacement refers to how far an object has moved from its equilibrium position. In this context, it represents how much a spring is stretched or compressed.

Potential Energy (U): Potential energy is stored energy that an object possesses due to its position or condition. In this case, it refers to the energy stored in a compressed or stretched spring.