If a spring with a spring constant k = 10 n/m is stretched from its equilibrium position by 0.1 m, and released, what would be the maxi- mum kinetic energy at any time in its motion? neglect friction.

1. 0.025 j
2. 0.1 j
3. not enough information given
4. 0.05 j
5. 1 j

0.05J

Explanation:

Since the total energy is conserved I.e the mechanical energy, the energy present in the system are kinetic energy, potential energy and the gravitational potential energy. The expression for this energy is written as

Kinetic Energy=1/2MV^2

Potential Energy=1/2Kx^2

Where K is the spring constant and X is the extension the spring experience.

Gravitational Energy=mgh

Where m=mass, g=gravity constant and h=height

Hence for a spring with spring constant 10N/m and extension 0.1m the potential energy can be calculated as

PE=1/2Kx^2

If we substitute values we arrive at

PE=1/2×10×0.1^2

PE=0.05J