What is the difference between elastic potential energy and gravitational potential energy?

Elastic potential energy is stored in stretched or compressed objects, while gravitational potential energy is due to an object's position in a gravitational field.

Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in an object when it is stretched or compressed. This can occur in materials such as springs, rubber bands, and bungee cords. The amount of elastic potential energy stored in an object depends on the amount of deformation, or how much the object has been stretched or compressed. The formula for elastic potential energy is E = 1/2 kx^2, where k is the spring constant and x is the amount of deformation. For a more in-depth exploration of energy in systems like springs, consider the principles of energy in simple harmonic motion explained here.

Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. This energy is dependent on the object's mass, height above a reference point, and the strength of the gravitational field. The formula for gravitational potential energy is E = mgh, where m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height above the reference point. A focused discussion on gravitational potential energy can be found here.

Both elastic potential energy and gravitational potential energy are forms of potential energy, meaning they have the potential to do work. When an object is released from a position of potential energy, it will convert that potential energy into kinetic energy, or the energy of motion. To understand more about different types of energy and their transformations, you might find this page helpful: Types of Energy. Understanding these different forms of potential energy is important in many areas of physics, including mechanics and thermodynamics.

A-Level Physics Tutor Summary: Elastic potential energy is stored when objects like springs are stretched or compressed, depending on how much they're deformed, using the formula E = 1/2 kx^2. Gravitational potential energy relates to an object's height in a gravity field, calculated by E = mgh, involving its mass and height. Both types can change into motion energy, crucial for understanding physics principles.