For a light spring obeying Hooke’s law with force constant

PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Work, Energy and Power · Work, Energy and Power

Problem

k

, the block attached to its free end moves from an extension

x_1

to another extension

x_2

(measured from the equilibrium position). (i) Starting from the definition of elastic potential energy stored in the spring, derive an expression for the work done by the spring force when the block moves from

x_1

x_2

. (ii) Using your result, find the numerical value of the work done when

k = 250\,\text{N m}^{-1}

x_1 = 3.0\,\text{cm}

and

x_2 = 8.0\,\text{cm}

. Express the answer with proper sign.

Related theory

Variable Forces & Graphical Methods
Potential Energy
Work done on a spring and elastic potential energy
Work, Energy and Power
Potential energy of a spring

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