Physics springs equation

[Summer Sweet]

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What is (0.5)(k)(x)?

I thought the force of a spring was F = 0.5 k x, but my practice test solutions say that it should be F = k x. I could have sworn I saw 0.5kx somewhere, though. Does anyone know what it is for?

 

[jhh3000]

it's F=-k*x where k is the spring constant in Newtons per Meter, and x is the distance from the spring's equilibrium position.

the force always acts to restore the spring back to equilibrium position.

 

[xlr8]

you might be thinking of Uel = (.5)(k)(x^2), Uel = elastic potential energy of the string

 

[jhh3000]

i don't think we need to know elastic potential do we?

 

[Summer Sweet]

you might be thinking of Uel = (.5)(k)(x^2), Uel = elastic potential energy of the string

Thanks! I think that's probably where I saw it and probably mixed up equations again.

i don't think we need to know elastic potential do we?

I think you're supposed to have a general understanding of oscillations, like springs and pendulums. I didn't go by the AAMC list because it was pretty detailed to be able to finish in 2 months, so I went by the TPR syllabus.

 

[J ROD]

i don't think we need to know elastic potential do we?

I would understand how oscillations work with PE and KE.

You might get asked what is the max velocity of the oscillations or something as well.