A horizontal spring with force constant is compressed and then released so that it…

PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Work Energy and Power · Work Energy and Power

Problem

A horizontal spring with force constant

200\,\text{N/m}

is compressed

0.15\,\text{m}

and then released so that it returns to its equilibrium length. Neglecting friction, what is the change in the spring’s potential energy

\Delta U_{\text{spring}}

between the instant just before release and the instant it passes through equilibrium? (a)

+2.3\,\text{J}

(b)

0\,\text{J}

(c)

-2.3\,\text{J}

(d)

-4.5\,\text{J}