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Physics
29 Nov 2025
365
5 pages
Reuben Cowell @reubencowell
Hooke's Law and Elasticity in Physics: Understanding force-extension relationships and deformation
Objects can undergo either elastic or inelastic deformation when subjected to forces.
Definition Elastic deformation occurs when an object returns to its original shape after the applied force is removed.
Definition Inelastic deformation occurs when an object does not fully return to its original shape after the applied force is removed.
Examples of elastic objects
Examples of inelastic objects
Highlight The elastic and inelastic deformation in physics concept is crucial for understanding material properties and behavior under stress.
When a spring is stretched or compressed, work is done, and energy is transferred to its elastic potential energy store. The work done on a spring can be calculated using the equation
Formula Ee = ½ × k × x²
Where
Highlight This formula only applies to objects that haven't exceeded their limit of proportionality.
Hooke's law is a fundamental principle in physics that describes the relationship between force and extension in elastic objects.
Definition Hooke's law states that the extension of an elastic object is directly proportional to the force applied, up to the limit of proportionality.
The limit of proportionality is the point beyond which an elastic object may extend but won't return to its original shape when the force is removed. This value varies by material.
Force-extension graphs visually represent Hooke's law. These graphs typically show
Example In a force-extension graph for a spring, the initial straight line represents the elastic region, while the curved portion indicates the plastic region.
The spring constant (k) can be determined from force-extension graphs by finding the gradient
Formula k = gradient = ΔF / Δe
Where
Highlight A steeper gradient indicates a larger spring constant, meaning the spring is stiffer.
Hooke's Law is expressed by the equation
Formula F = k × e
Where
Vocabulary Extension is calculated by subtracting the original length from the final length of the object.
To solve problems using Hooke's Law
Highlight Pay attention to units when solving Hooke's Law problems. The standard units are meters for length and Newtons per meter for spring constant.
Example When calculating the spring constant using force extension graphs, ensure that you convert centimeters to meters by dividing by 100.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for understanding Hooke's law force extension relationship and related concepts in physics, suitable for GCSE and KS3 level students.
This page provides a step-by-step guide on how to approach and solve problems related to Hooke's Law.
Steps to answer a Hooke's Law question
Highlight Pay close attention to units when solving Hooke's Law problems. Most springs are measured in centimeters, but Hooke's Law uses meters, so conversion may be necessary.
Example The page includes a visual representation of a spring, highlighting the original length, final length, and the force (weight) applied, to help students understand how to apply Hooke's Law in practical scenarios.
When multiple forces act on an object, it may undergo deformation through stretching, compressing, or bending. This process transfers energy to the object's elastic potential energy store.
Definition Deformation refers to a change in an object's shape due to applied forces.
The three main types of deformation are
Highlight Deformation only occurs when two or more forces are applied. A single force would simply cause the object to move.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the principles of Hooke's Law and elasticity in this detailed summary. Learn about elastic and inelastic deformation, the spring constant (k), and how extension relates to applied force. This resource is essential for mastering concepts in physics related to forces and materials.
PhysicsExplore the principles of elasticity, including Hooke's Law, spring constant (k), and elastic potential energy. This summary provides clear explanations and key formulas, making it ideal for GCSE physics students. Understand how force and extension relate, and learn about elastic and inelastic deformation with practical examples.
PhysicsExplore the principles of Hooke's Law, momentum, and moments in mechanics. This summary covers elastic behavior, the relationship between force and extension, conservation of momentum, and the effects of forces on motion. Ideal for students studying physics, this resource provides clear explanations and key formulas to enhance understanding.
PhysicsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Reuben Cowell
@reubencowell
Hooke's Law and Elasticity in Physics: Understanding force-extension relationships and deformation
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Objects can undergo either elastic or inelastic deformation when subjected to forces.
Definition: Elastic deformation occurs when an object returns to its original shape after the applied force is removed.
Definition: Inelastic deformation occurs when an object does not fully return to its original shape after the applied force is removed.
Examples of elastic objects:
Examples of inelastic objects:
Highlight: The elastic and inelastic deformation in physics concept is crucial for understanding material properties and behavior under stress.
When a spring is stretched or compressed, work is done, and energy is transferred to its elastic potential energy store. The work done on a spring can be calculated using the equation:
Formula: Ee = ½ × k × x²
Where:
Highlight: This formula only applies to objects that haven't exceeded their limit of proportionality.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Hooke's law is a fundamental principle in physics that describes the relationship between force and extension in elastic objects.
Definition: Hooke's law states that the extension of an elastic object is directly proportional to the force applied, up to the limit of proportionality.
The limit of proportionality is the point beyond which an elastic object may extend but won't return to its original shape when the force is removed. This value varies by material.
Force-extension graphs visually represent Hooke's law. These graphs typically show:
Example: In a force-extension graph for a spring, the initial straight line represents the elastic region, while the curved portion indicates the plastic region.
The spring constant (k) can be determined from force-extension graphs by finding the gradient:
Formula: k = gradient = ΔF / Δe
Where:
Highlight: A steeper gradient indicates a larger spring constant, meaning the spring is stiffer.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Hooke's Law is expressed by the equation:
Formula: F = k × e
Where:
Vocabulary: Extension is calculated by subtracting the original length from the final length of the object.
To solve problems using Hooke's Law:
Highlight: Pay attention to units when solving Hooke's Law problems. The standard units are meters for length and Newtons per meter for spring constant.
Example: When calculating the spring constant using force extension graphs, ensure that you convert centimeters to meters by dividing by 100.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for understanding Hooke's law force extension relationship and related concepts in physics, suitable for GCSE and KS3 level students.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This page provides a step-by-step guide on how to approach and solve problems related to Hooke's Law.
Steps to answer a Hooke's Law question:
Highlight: Pay close attention to units when solving Hooke's Law problems. Most springs are measured in centimeters, but Hooke's Law uses meters, so conversion may be necessary.
Example: The page includes a visual representation of a spring, highlighting the original length, final length, and the force (weight) applied, to help students understand how to apply Hooke's Law in practical scenarios.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
When multiple forces act on an object, it may undergo deformation through stretching, compressing, or bending. This process transfers energy to the object's elastic potential energy store.
Definition: Deformation refers to a change in an object's shape due to applied forces.
The three main types of deformation are:
Highlight: Deformation only occurs when two or more forces are applied. A single force would simply cause the object to move.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
8
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the principles of Hooke's Law and elasticity in this detailed summary. Learn about elastic and inelastic deformation, the spring constant (k), and how extension relates to applied force. This resource is essential for mastering concepts in physics related to forces and materials.
PhysicsExplore the principles of elasticity, including Hooke's Law, spring constant (k), and elastic potential energy. This summary provides clear explanations and key formulas, making it ideal for GCSE physics students. Understand how force and extension relate, and learn about elastic and inelastic deformation with practical examples.
PhysicsExplore the principles of Hooke's Law, momentum, and moments in mechanics. This summary covers elastic behavior, the relationship between force and extension, conservation of momentum, and the effects of forces on motion. Ideal for students studying physics, this resource provides clear explanations and key formulas to enhance understanding.
PhysicsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
