Work Done on a Spring (OCR Gateway GCSE Physics: Combined Science)

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Work Done on a Spring

  • When a spring is stretched or compressed by a force, work is done by the spring
  • Work done is the transfer of energy
    • The energy is transferred to its elastic potential energy store

Compressed and Stretched Spring, downloadable IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

When a spring is stretched or compressed, there is work done and elastic potential energy is stored

  • Elastic potential energy is defined as:

The energy stored in an elastic object when work is done on the object

  • Provided the spring is not inelastically deformed (i.e has not exceeded its limit of proportionality), the work done on the spring and its elastic potential energy stored are equal

Calculating the Work Done on a Spring

  • The work done, or the elastic potential energy stored, while stretching or compressing a spring can be calculated using the equation:

Ee = ½ × k × e2

  • Where:
    • Ee = elastic potential energy in joules (J)
    • k = spring constant in newtons per metre (N/m)
    • e = extension in metres (m)

Elastic Potential Energy, downloadable IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

The elastic potential energy in a stretched spring depends on its spring constant and extension

  • This equation is only for springs that have not been stretched beyond their limit of proportionality
    • The term e2 means that if the extension is doubled then the work done is quadrupled
    • This is because 22 = 4

Worked example

A mass is attached to the bottom of a hanging spring with a spring constant k and 0.2 J of work is done to stretch it by 4.5 cm. Calculate the spring constant, k for this spring.

Exam Tip

Remember: when calculating the work done the extension, e, is squared (e2)!

Sometimes you may see x instead of e. These are interchangeable so be prepared for both!

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.