Question 1: Define elastic potential energy in your own words.

Answer: Elastic potential energy is the stored energy held in an elastic object when it is stretched or compressed.

Question 2: Which physical property of a material determines how much elastic potential energy it can store?

Answer: The material's elastic limit and its spring constant (stiffness).

Question 1: Explain how the stiffness (spring constant) of an object affects its elastic potential energy when stretched or compressed.

Answer: A higher spring constant means the object is stiffer, so for the same extension or compression, it can store more elastic potential energy.

Question 2: Describe what happens to the elastic potential energy when a stretched elastic object is returned to its original shape.

Answer: The elastic potential energy is converted back into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy or heat, as the object returns to its natural length.

Question 1: A steel spring with a spring constant of 200 N/m is stretched by 0.05 m. Calculate the elastic potential energy stored in the spring. (Use E = 0.5 × k × x²)

Answer: 0.5 × 200 N/m × (0.05 m)² = 0.5 × 200 × 0.0025 = 0.25 joules

Question 2: If the elastic potential energy stored in a rubber band is 0.15 J and the spring constant is 30 N/m, what is the extension of the rubber band? (Rearranged formula: x = √(2E / k))

Answer: x = √(2 × 0.15 J / 30 N/m) = √(0.3 / 30) = √0.01 = 0.1 m

Question 1: Describe an experiment to measure the elastic potential energy stored in a spring, including the variables you would control and safety precautions.

Answer: An experiment can involve stretching a spring by known amounts using a calibrated force or extension meter, measuring the extension for different applied forces, and calculating the energy using the formula. Variables to control include the spring's temperature and ensuring the extension stays within elastic limits. Safety precautions include avoiding overstretching to prevent spring breakage and wearing safety glasses.

Question 2: Explain how elastic potential energy is utilised in a bungee jump and discuss safety considerations involved.

Answer: In a bungee jump, the elastic cord stores elastic potential energy as it stretches during the fall, which then converts back to kinetic energy and helps slow the descent. Safety considerations include ensuring the cord's spring constant and maximum extension are appropriate for the jumper's weight to prevent over-stretching or snapping.

Question 3: Identify two industries or technologies where elastic potential energy plays a crucial role and briefly explain its importance.

Answer: The automotive industry uses elastic potential energy in suspension systems to absorb shocks, improving ride comfort and safety. Also, in energy storage systems like elastic energy storage devices, elastic materials help store and release energy efficiently.