Suppose a 0.9-kg mass on a spring that has been compressed 0.1 m has elastic potential energy of 1.1 J.What is the spring constant?

A) 198 N/m
B) 244 N/m
C) 220 N/m
D) 22 N/m
E) 90 N/m

Question

Suppose a 0.9-kg mass on a spring that has been compressed 0.1 m has elastic potential energy of 1.1 J.What is the spring constant?
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A) 198 N/m
B) 244 N/m
C) 220 N/m
D) 22 N/m
E) ​90 N/m

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

We know that elastic potential energy (PE) and spring constant (k) are related by the formula: PE = 1/2kx^2, where x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position. 
Substituting the given values, we get:
1.1 J = 1/2 k (0.1 m)^2
Solving for k, we get:
k = 2.2 J/m^2
Converting to N/m, we get:
k = 220 N/m 
Therefore, the answer is C) 220 N/m.