Springs

physics · engineering · everyday magic

Stores Energy. Springs soak up energy when you compress them, stretch them, or twist them, then release all that power back when you let go. This is why a bouncy ball springs back up or a trampoline launches you into the air.

All Around Us. Springs hide inside your bed, your car's suspension, pens, toys, and even door handles. They make things work smoothly and comfortably in hundreds of devices you use every day.

Made from Steel. Most modern springs are crafted from special spring steel, a metal that's super bendy but also strong enough to spring back millions of times without breaking. This makes them reliable and long lasting.

Ancient Designs. Springs aren't new. The bow, traditionally made from flexible yew wood, is one of the oldest spring devices humans invented. When you pull back the bowstring, the curved wood stores energy to launch an arrow.

Many Shapes. Springs come in coils, flat ribbons, curves, and twisted forms, each designed for different jobs. A car's spring works differently than a clock's spring, but they all follow the same clever principle.