Forces & Elasticity — GCSE Physics Revision
Revise Forces & Elasticity for GCSE Physics. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to Moments, Levers & GearsWhat is Forces & Elasticity?
Elasticity is the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Hooke's Law states that the extension of a spring is directly proportional to the force applied, up to a certain point called the limit of proportionality. Beyond this point, the material is permanently deformed (inelastic deformation).
Board notes: Covered by all major boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR). Higher Tier students will be expected to perform calculations using Hooke's Law and understand the concept of work done in stretching a spring.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
A spring has a spring constant of 20 N/m. What force is needed to stretch it by 10 cm? Solution: First, convert the extension to metres: 10 cm = 0.1 m. Then use Hooke's Law: Force = Spring Constant x Extension (F=ke). F = 20 N/m x 0.1 m = 2 N.
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Common mistakes
- 1Assuming Hooke's Law applies for any amount of force. It only applies up to the limit of proportionality.
- 2Confusing elastic and inelastic deformation. Elastic deformation is temporary; the object returns to its original shape. Inelastic (or plastic) deformation is permanent.
- 3Plotting the graph of force against extension incorrectly. Force should be on the y-axis and extension on the x-axis. The gradient of the straight-line part is the spring constant.
Forces & Elasticity exam questions
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Forces & Elasticity
Core concept
Elasticity is the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Hooke's Law states that the extension of a spring is directly proportional to the force app…
Frequently asked questions
What is Hooke's Law?
Hooke's Law states that the force needed to stretch or compress a spring by some distance is directly proportional to that distance. The equation is F = ke, where k is the spring constant.
What is the elastic limit?
The elastic limit is the point beyond which a material is permanently stretched. If you stretch it past this point, it will not return to its original length when the force is removed.