Spring Work Calculator:
Enter the values of spring constant, k(N/m) and displacement, x(m) to determine the value of spring work, Ws(J).
Spring Work Calculation Formula:
The concept of spring work is essential in the study of mechanics, specifically in areas concerning elastic potential energy.
Spring work refers to the work done on or by a spring when it is compressed or stretched from its equilibrium position.
This work is stored as potential energy within the spring, governed by Hooke’s Law, which relates the force exerted by the spring to its displacement.
Spring work, Ws(J) in joules is calculated by the product of on half of the spring constant, k(N/m) in Newtons per metre and square of displacement, x(m) in metres.
Spring work, Ws(J) = ½ * k(N/m) * x2(m)
Ws(J) = spring work in joules, J.
k(N/m) = spring constant in Newtons per metre, N/s.
x(m) = displacement in metres, m.
Spring Work Calculation:
- Calculate the work done by a spring with a constant of 500 N/m compressed by 0.2 metres:
Given:
- Spring constant, k(N/m) = 500 N/m
- Displacement, x(m) = 0.2 m
Spring work, Ws(J) = ½ * k(N/m) * x2(m)
Ws(J) = ½ * 500 * 0.22
Ws(J) = ½ * 500 * 0.04
Ws(J) = 10J.
- A spring with a constant of 300 N/m is stretched by 0.5 metres. Determine the spring constant:
Given:
- Spring work, Ws(J) = 37.5J.
- Displacement, x(m) = 0.5
Spring work, Ws(J) = ½ * k(N/m) * x2(m)
k(N/m) = 2 * Ws(J) / x2(m)
k(N/m) = 2 * 37.5 / 0.52
k(N/m) = 2 * 37.5 / 0.25
k(N/m) = 300N/m.
Applications and Considerations:
- In mechanical engineering, understanding the work done by springs is crucial for designing systems like suspension in vehicles or any mechanical system requiring shock absorption.
- In physics education, experiments involving springs help students grasp the principles of energy conservation and forces.
- Designing toys and sports equipment often utilizes the principles of spring work to ensure proper functionality and safety.