Interpret force-extension graphs in terms of energy stored where appropriate.

Force-extension graphs visually represent the relationship between the force applied to an elastic object and its extension. The area under the graph indicates the elastic potential energy stored in the object. In the linear region of the graph, where Hooke's law applies, the energy stored can be calculated using the formula for elastic potential energy. As the force increases, the extension increases proportionally until the limit of proportionality is reached. Beyond this point, the graph may curve, indicating that the material is undergoing inelastic deformation, and the energy stored will not be fully recoverable.