Exam-style question
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During the oscillation of a mass-spring system, at which point is the potential energy maximum?.
- A.At the equilibrium position.
- B.At the maximum displacement.
- C.At the midpoint of the oscillation.
- D.At the minimum displacement.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- At the maximum displacement.
Explanation
Why this works
The potential energy in a mass-spring system is maximum at the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position, where the spring is either fully compressed or stretched.
Common mistake
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