A force of 10 N holds an ideal spring with a 20-N/m spring constant in compression.The potential energy stored in the spring is:
A)0.5 J
B)2.5 J
C)5 J
D)10 J
E)200 J

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The formula to calculate the potential energy stored in a spring is:

U = 0.5 * k * x^2

where U is the potential energy, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position.

In this case, the force holding the spring is 10 N, which means that the spring is compressed by:

x = F / k = 10 N / 20 N/m = 0.5 m

Therefore, the potential energy stored in the spring is:

U = 0.5 * k * x^2 = 0.5 * 20 N/m * (0.5 m)^2 = 2.5 J

So, the answer is B.

A Force of 10 N Holds an Ideal Spring with a 20-N/m