Elastic Potential Energy Calculator
Find the energy stored in an ideal linear spring from stiffness and signed extension.
Formula
U = kx²/2; k in N/m, x in m.
Stored energy ≈ (200)×(0.1)^2÷2
How to use
- Enter spring stiffness in N/m.
- Enter extension or compression from relaxed length.
- Read stored energy in joules.
Examples
- k = 200 N/m and x = 0.1 m store 1 J.
Frequently asked questions
What does negative extension mean?
Compression; equal extension and compression store equal energy.
Where is energy zero?
At the relaxed spring length, x = 0.
Does this fit every spring?
Only within the linear elastic range; it excludes damping and permanent deformation.
Sources
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