Spring Work & F–x Graph

This interactive simulator explores Spring Work (F–x) in Classical Mechanics. F = kx graph, shaded W = area = ½kx²; U(x) curve vs Spring-Mass dynamics. Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.

Who it's for: Suited to beginners and first exposure to the topic. Typical context: Classical Mechanics.

Key terms

  • spring
  • work
  • spring work graph
  • mechanics
  • classical

Live graphs

How it works

Unlike the Spring-Mass time simulation, this view stresses the geometric meaning of work: for a Hookean spring stretched quasistatically from equilibrium, F(x) = kx and the work ∫ F dx from 0 to x equals the triangular area ½kx², i.e. the stored elastic potential energy.

Key equations

W = ∫₀^x F(x') dx' = ∫₀^x kx' dx' = ½ k x² = U