PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
Two students analyze the same ideal spring. Student A defines zero elastic potential energy at the spring’s relaxed length, while Student B defines zero at a compression of 0.10 m. Both students measure that the spring stores 2.0 J of potential energy when compressed 0.10 m relative to its relaxed length. Will the two students obtain the same numerical value for the spring constant? Explain briefly.