Physics 1029A/B Quiz: Elastic potential Energy and Work - Textbook notes.docx
23 Apr 2014
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K (x-xeq) = ma ma= the restoring force that acts on the object on the end of a horizontal spring. It is the only force that acts on the object in the horizontal direction. The sign shows that it acts in the opposite direction to the x axis. W= fext xfinal = (k xfinal) xfinal. Equation [14. 9] & [14. 10] - elastic potential energy. Eelast= kx2 when xeq = 0 (the origin is 0). Etotal= eelast +ekin = kx2 + mv2. Elastic energy vs gravitational potential energy: the parabolic shape of elastic potential energy defines a minimum in elastic energy at equilibrium position, a well defined minimum in gravitational potential energy does not exist. W=mg always points downwards: kinetic energy: (blue arrow) is the difference between the total energy (green) and the potential energy (red), potential energy cannot exceed total energy.
