\[W = \frac{1}{2}kx^2\]
Variables
Wwork stored in the spring (J)
kspring constant (N/m)
xspring displacement (m)
Description
What is this formula?
The spring work equation calculates the work required to compress or stretch a spring from its equilibrium position according to Hooke's Law.
When to use it
Use this formula when analyzing elastic systems, spring compression, vibration systems, suspension mechanisms, or energy storage devices.
Example
A spring with constant 500 N/m is compressed by 0.04 m.
Data:
k = 500 N/m
x = 0.04 m
Formula:
W = 0.5*k*x²
Substitution:
W = 0.5*500*0.04²
Result:
W = 0.4 J
Applications
Mechanical engineering, vibration analysis, suspension systems, robotics, elastic mechanisms, and energy storage systems.