Question

what is Elastic Potential Energy?

Answer 1

okay.. when you stretch an elastic rubber band say... the molecules haveexternal forces acting on them and hence inter-molecular space increases leading to the extension (because the force has to be balanced with the inter-molecular force). ie their potential energy (instability in a way) increases... now this energy is called elastic potential energy.... as soon as you release it, the external force disappears.. and the molecules get back to their original shape with their original inter-molecular distances (not considering permanent deformation for now).




(the molecules are much closely packed in reality.. the diagram is very crude and is just for you visual help)