Practical Investigation and Energy Considerations
The practical investigation of force and extension relationships requires careful measurement and analysis. The procedure involves:
- Measuring the spring's natural length
- Adding masses incrementally
- Recording length changes
- Plotting force against extension
Definition: Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in a stretched or compressed elastic object.
Example: The energy stored in a spring can be calculated using the equation Ee = ½ke²
Highlight: The area under a force-extension graph represents the work done or energy stored in the spring.
Required equipment includes:
- Clamp
- Masses (1kg each)
- Spring
- Fixed ruler
- Weighted stand
Vocabulary: Extension is measured in metres (m) and represents the change in length from the object's original size.
The practical activity develops essential scientific skills including measurement, data collection, and graphical analysis while demonstrating the fundamental principles of elasticity and force relationships.
