Restoring force

Definition

A restoring force is a force that acts to bring a system back to its equilibrium position. It is directly proportional to the displacement and acts in the opposite direction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. According to Hooke's Law, the restoring force $F$ is given by $F = -kx$, where $k$ is the spring constant and $x$ is the displacement from equilibrium.
2. The negative sign in Hooke's Law indicates that the restoring force always acts in the opposite direction of displacement.
3. Restoring forces are essential for oscillatory motion, as they cause systems to oscillate around their equilibrium positions.
4. In simple harmonic motion, the magnitude of the restoring force determines the frequency and amplitude of oscillations.
5. The concept of restoring force can be applied not only to springs but also to other elastic materials experiencing stress and strain.

Review Questions

• What does Hooke's Law state about the relationship between restoring force and displacement?
• Why is there a negative sign in the equation for restoring force according to Hooke's Law?
• How does the magnitude of a restoring force affect an oscillating system?

Related terms

Hooke's Law:

A principle stating that the force needed to extend or compress a spring by some distance is proportional to that distance.

Equilibrium Position:

The point at which all forces acting on a system are balanced, resulting in no net movement.

Simple Harmonic Motion:

A type of periodic motion where an object moves back and forth through its equilibrium position under a restoring force proportional to its displacement.