How is elastic potential energy related to work done?

Elastic potential energy is related to work done through the formula W = 1/2kx².

When a spring is stretched or compressed, it stores potential energy due to its elasticity. This potential energy is known as elastic potential energy. The amount of elastic potential energy stored in a spring is directly proportional to the amount of deformation or displacement from its equilibrium position. This means that the more the spring is stretched or compressed, the more potential energy it stores.

When an external force is applied to a spring, work is done on the spring. This work is equal to the amount of elastic potential energy stored in the spring. The formula for calculating the work done on a spring is W = 1/2kx², where k is the spring constant and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position. This formula shows that the work done on a spring is directly proportional to the amount of deformation or displacement.

In summary, elastic potential energy is related to work done through the formula W = 1/2kx². When an external force is applied to a spring, work is done on the spring, and this work is equal to the amount of elastic potential energy stored in the spring. The more the spring is stretched or compressed, the more potential energy it stores, and the more work is required to deform it.