Potential energy of a spring at the equilibrium position is:
Correct answer: A. Zero
- A. Zero
- B. Infinite
- C. Maximum
- D. Information is Insufficient
Explanation
The potential energy (U) of a spring at its equilibrium position is zero. The potential energy stored in a spring is given by Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement from its equilibrium position. Mathematically, Hooke's Law is expressed as: F = -kx where:- ( F ) is the force exerted by the spring,- ( k ) is the spring constant (a measure of the stiffness of the spring), and- ( x ) is the displacement from the equilibrium position.The potential energy (U) is related to the force (F) by the equation:U = 1/2 kx2At the equilibrium position, (x) is zero, and therefore, the potential energy (U) is also zero.
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About Simple Harmonic Motion
Simple harmonic motion is oscillation in which acceleration is directly proportional to displacement and directed toward the equilibrium position. Work includes displacement, velocity, acceleration, phase, period, frequency, amplitude and energy, with applications to springs and simple pendulums. The restoring force and the conditions for SHM distinguish it from general periodic motion.
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