What is elastic potential energy?

Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in a spring or elastic object when it is deformed (stretched or compressed) from its natural rest position. It is released when the spring returns to its original shape.

What is the formula used?

The formula is E = ½ × k × x², where E is the elastic potential energy in joules, k is the spring constant in newtons per meter (N/m), and x is the displacement in meters.

Does it matter if the spring is stretched or compressed?

No. The formula uses x², so the result is always positive regardless of whether the spring is stretched (positive x) or compressed (negative x). Both store the same energy for the same magnitude of displacement.

What is the spring constant?

The spring constant (k) measures the stiffness of a spring. A higher k means a stiffer spring that requires more force to deform. It is measured in newtons per meter (N/m) in SI units.

Can I use different units?

Yes. Use the built-in unit menus for the spring constant and displacement; the calculator converts the selected units internally before applying E = ½kx².

Elastic Potential Energy Calculator

Enter a spring constant and displacement to instantly calculate the elastic potential energy stored using E = ½kx².

Spring Parameters

Formula: E = ½ × k × x²

Spring Constant (k)

Displacement (x)

Positive or negative — energy is always positive.

Enter values on the left to calculate energy.

Copied!

Summary

This tool calculates the elastic potential energy stored in a spring using Hooke's Law. Simply enter the spring constant (k) and the displacement (x) from the spring's natural length, and the calculator returns the stored energy in joules. It also shows the full step-by-step calculation so you can follow the math. Useful for physics students, engineers, and anyone working with spring-loaded mechanisms.

How it works

Enter the spring constant (k) in newtons per meter (N/m).
Enter the displacement (x) — how far the spring is stretched or compressed from its rest position.
The calculator applies the formula E = ½ × k × x² and displays the result in joules.
Review the step-by-step breakdown to understand each stage of the calculation.
Use the reset button to start a new calculation.

Use cases

Physics homework and exam preparation.
Engineering design of spring-loaded mechanisms.
Calculating energy stored in shock absorbers or suspension springs.
Verifying hand calculations against Hooke's Law.
Teaching elastic potential energy concepts interactively.
Estimating energy release in mechanical devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-05-23 · Reviewed by Nham Vu