Question 1: Define elastic energy and explain how it is stored in materials.

Answer: Elastic energy is the potential energy stored in a material when it is stretched or compressed. It is stored as a result of the material's elastic deformation, and it is released when the material returns to its original shape.

Question 2: Describe a space exploration technology or scenario where elastic energy is utilised.

Answer: Elastic energy is used in deployable solar panels and antennae, which are compact during launch and deploy by releasing stored elastic energy once in space.

Question 1: What is the formula for elastic potential energy stored in a stretched or compressed object?

Answer: Elastic potential energy = 0.5 × spring constant (k) × extension (x)^2

Question 2: Explain why materials used in space deployable mechanisms must have a high elastic limit.

Answer: Materials must have a high elastic limit to ensure they can withstand the deformation during deployment without permanent damage, allowing reliable release of elastic energy.

Question 1: A space satellite uses a spring with a spring constant of 200 N/m to deploy its solar panels. If the panels are stretched by 0.05 m during deployment, calculate the elastic potential energy stored in the spring. (Use E = 0.5 × k × x^2)

Answer: Elastic potential energy = 0.5 × 200 N/m × (0.05 m)^2 = 0.5 × 200 × 0.0025 = 0.25 Joules

Question 2: If a spring in a space probe has a spring constant of 150 N/m and stores 1.125 Joules of elastic energy, what is the extension of the spring?

Answer: x = sqrt(2 × E / k) = sqrt(2 × 1.125 / 150) = sqrt(0.015) ≈ 0.1225 m

Question 1: Outline the key variables you would control in an experiment to measure the elastic potential energy stored in a spring used in space deployment mechanisms.

Answer: Variables include the spring constant (k), extension (x), temperature (as it affects material properties), and the applied force. Consistent measurement of extension and force is crucial.

Question 2: List safety precautions that must be considered when handling elastic components in space technology during testing.

Answer: Precautions include wearing protective gear, ensuring the spring is securely anchored during compression or extension, and following protocols to prevent sudden release of stored energy.

Question 1: A series of springs used in a satellite deployment system have spring constants of 100 N/m, 150 N/m, and 200 N/m. When compressed by 0.02 m, rank the springs in order of the elastic energy stored from highest to lowest.

Answer: Elastic energy = 0.5 × k × x^2 For each: Spring 1: 0.5 × 100 × 0.0004 = 0.02 J Spring 2: 0.5 × 150 × 0.0004 = 0.03 J Spring 3: 0.5 × 200 × 0.0004 = 0.04 J Order: Spring 3 > Spring 2 > Spring 1.

Question 1: Explain how elastic energy is harnessed in the deployment of satellite solar panels. Include the advantages of using elastic mechanisms in space technology. (6 marks)

Answer: Elastic energy is stored in springs or elastic components during the launch phase when they are compressed or stretched. Once in space, the elastic potential energy is released, causing the solar panels to deploy automatically. This method is advantageous because it reduces the need for complex electronic systems, ensures reliable deployment in the vacuum of space, and minimises the risk of mechanical failure.

Question 1: Discuss a future space technology or mission that could benefit from advancements in elastic materials, explaining the potential improvements over current systems.

Answer: Future space missions could utilise advanced elastic materials with higher elastic limits for deploying large antennas or habitats. These materials could allow for more compact storage during launch and easier deployment, reducing spacecraft size and weight while increasing reliability and efficiency.