All Flashcards
In a Force vs Displacement Graph, what does the slope represent?
The slope of the graph represents the spring constant, k.
On a potential energy vs. position graph, what does the slope represent?
The slope of the potential energy graph gives you the negative of the force.
What is the definition of Hooke's Law?
The force exerted by an ideal spring is proportional to the displacement from its equilibrium position: (F_s = -k Delta x)
What is the definition of spring constant (k)?
A measure of a spring's stiffness; a larger k means the spring is harder to stretch.
What is the definition of elastic potential energy?
The energy stored in a spring due to its deformation: (U_s = frac{1}{2}k(Delta x)^2)
What is a conservative force?
A force where the work done is independent of the path taken; it only depends on the initial and final positions.
What is the definition of gravitational potential energy near Earth?
The change in potential energy due to a change in height in a uniform gravitational field: (Delta U = mgDelta h)
What is the general formula for gravitational potential energy?
The gravitational potential energy between two masses at a distance r: (U = -frac{Gm_1m_2}{r})
What happens when a spring is compressed or stretched?
Elastic potential energy is stored in the spring.
What happens when work is done by a conservative force?
There is a negative change in potential energy: (W = -Delta U).
What happens when the slope of a potential energy graph is zero?
The system is in equilibrium (no net force).
What happens when an object moves higher in a gravitational field (near Earth)?
Its gravitational potential energy increases: (Delta U = mgDelta h).
What happens when the distance between two masses increases?
The gravitational potential energy becomes less negative (increases).