How much work is required to stretch an ideal spring of spring constant (force constant)40 N/m from x = 0.20 m to x = 0.25 m if the unstretched position is at x = 0.00 m?
A)0.45 J
B)0.80 J
C)1.3 J
D)0.050 J

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The work done to stretch a spring is given by the formula: 
W = (1/2)k(x2^2 - x1^2) 
where k is the force constant, x1 is the initial displacement, and x2 is the final displacement. 
Here, k = 40 N/m, x1 = 0.20 m, and x2 = 0.25 m. 
Therefore, 
W = (1/2)(40 N/m)((0.25 m)^2 - (0.20 m)^2) 
W = 0.45 J 
Thus, the work required to stretch the spring from x = 0.20 m to x = 0.25 m is 0.45 J, which corresponds to choice A.

How Much Work Is Required to Stretch an Ideal Spring