Elastic Potential Energy Of A Spring — the NEET Physics formula with its derivation, variables, validity constraints and worked solver.
Elastic Potential Energy of a Spring Applies to ideal springs that obey Hooke's Law (linear elasticity). Define work done by an external force to stretch a spring: W = integral(F ext dx). Substitute Hooke's Law magnitude for external force: F ext = kx. Integrate kx with respect to x from 0 to x: integral(kx dx) = 1/2 k x 2. Define the work done as the change in potential energy stored in the spring. The spring must not be stretched or compressed beyond its elastic limit. The spring is assumed to be massless in ideal scenarios. Confusing 'x' with the total length of the spring rather than the change in length (extension/compression). Thinking potential energy can be negative; elastic potential energy is always non-negative because x is squared. Assuming the formula applies after the spring is permanently deformed (plastic region).