Physics 8463 - 4.5 Forces

4.5.3 Forces and elasticity

Helpful pages

You should be able to:

give examples of the forces involved in stretching, bending or compressing an object

explain why, to change the shape of an object (by stretching, bending or compressing), more than one force has to be applied – this is limited to stationary objects only

describe the difference between elastic deformation and inelastic deformation caused by stretching forces.

The extension of an elastic object, such as a spring, is directly proportional to the force applied, provided that the limit of proportionality is not exceeded.

force = spring constant × extension

F = ke

This equation is NOT given on the Physics equation sheet - you need to know it, what the letters mean and are measured in!

F = force, in newtons, N

k = spring constant, in newtons per metre, N/m

e = extension, in metres, m

This relationship also applies to the compression of an elastic object, where 'e' would be the compression of the object.

A force that stretches (or compresses) a spring does work and elastic potential energy is stored in the spring.

Provided the spring is not inelastically deformed, the work done on the spring and the elastic potential energy stored are equal.

You should be able to:

describe the difference between a linear and non-linear relationship between force and extension

calculate a spring constant in linear cases

interpret data from an investigation of the relationship between force and extension

calculate work done in stretching (or compressing) a spring (up to the limit of proportionality) using the equation:

elastic potential energy = ½ × spring constant × extension2

Ee = ½ke2

This equation is given on the Physics equation sheet - but you need to know what the letters mean and are measured in - so I suggest learn it anyway!

Students should be able to calculate relevant values of stored energy and energy transfers.

Required practical activity 6:

An investigation into the relationship between force and extension for a spring.