This higher tier covers Higher Tier: Elastic Potential Energy and Springs within Work Done & Energy Transfer for GCSE Physics. Revise Work Done & Energy Transfer in Forces for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 6 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 10 of 13 in this topic. This section is most useful once the core foundation idea is secure, because it adds the detail that pushes answers higher.
🎓 Higher Tier: Elastic Potential Energy and Springs
When you stretch or compress a spring (within its elastic limit), work is done and the energy is stored as elastic potential energy. Hooke's Law states F = ke, where k is the spring constant (N/m) and e is the extension (m).
The elastic potential energy stored is: Ep = ½ke²
Example: A spring with k = 40 N/m is stretched 0.2 m. Ep = ½ × 40 × (0.2)² = ½ × 40 × 0.04 = 0.8 J
This energy can be converted to kinetic energy when the spring is released — explaining how catapults, bows, and spring-loaded toys work.
Practice questions for Work Done & Energy Transfer
Which equation correctly represents work done?
Explain what is meant by 'work done' in physics. Include the conditions required for work to be done.