The elastic potential is directly proportional to the square of compression. The total elastic potential energy is 0.18 J that is is stored in this compressed spring.
To calculate the total elastic potential first, calculate the distance of compression by Hooke's law,
\(F=kx\)
Where,
\(F\)- force = 1.2 N
\(k\)- Spring constant = 4 N/m
Put the value in the formula and solve for \(x,\)
\(x = \dfrac {0.2\rm \ N}{4 \rm \ N/m}\\\\x = 0.3 \rm \ m\)
Now, use the total elastic potential,
\(U=\dfrac 12kx^2\)
Put the values,
\(U=\dfrac 12(4\rm \ N/m)(0.3\rm \ m)^2\\\\U=0.18 J\)
Therefore, the total elastic potential energy is 0.18 J that is is stored in this compressed spring.
To learn more about elastic potential:
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