Springs

A spring is a stretchy object, usually made of coiled metal. When you push or pull a spring, it stores energy. When you let go, it springs back to its original shape. Springs are found in many everyday things.

How Springs Store Energy

When you squeeze or stretch a spring, you give it energy. The spring wants to return to its normal shape. This stored energy is a kind of potential energy. As soon as you let go, the spring pushes or pulls back. The harder you squeeze, the harder it pushes back.

Springs We Use

Springs are everywhere in our homes. Mattresses use springs to feel soft and bouncy. Pens have tiny springs inside that click. Cars have big springs to make the ride smooth over bumps. Clocks and watches used to run on wound-up springs.

Fun Facts

• A toy called the Slinky is really just a long, loose spring.
• Some trampolines have more than 100 springs around the edge.
• The inside of a stapler has a spring that pushes the staples forward.

Did You Know?

Springs follow a rule called Hooke's law, which says the harder you stretch a spring, the harder it pulls back.