Question detail
Which of the following statements is true about the elastic potential energy in a spring?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Energy changes in a system, and the ways energy is stored before and after such changes
Question
- A. It increases as the spring is compressed.
- B. It decreases as the spring is stretched.
- C. It is independent of the spring constant.
- D. It is always zero when the spring is at rest.
Answer
It increases as the spring is compressed.
Explanation
The correct option is "It increases as the spring is compressed.". It increases as the spring is compressed. is right because it directly matches Changes in energy: Recall and apply the equation Ee = 0.5 x k x e^2.. The other options are less suitable because they change the required Physics relationship, confuse the relevant energy store or use a distractor that does not answer the question.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Elastic Potential Energy
Students often confuse the variables in the equation Ee = 0.5 x k x e^2, particularly mixing up the spring constant (k) and the extension (e).
To fix this, students should carefully identify each variable: k is the spring constant measured in N/m, and e is the extension in meters. Practicing with examples can help reinforce the correct application of the equation.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.