The force a spring exerts on a body is a conservative force because
A) a spring always exerts a force opposite to the displacement of the body.
B) a spring always exerts a force parallel to the displacement of the body.
C) the work a spring does on a body is equal for compressions and extensions of equal magnitude.
D) the work a spring does on a body is equal and opposite for compressions and extensions of equal magnitude.
E) the net work a spring does on a body is zero when the body returns to its initial position.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The net work done by a conservative force, like a spring force, is zero when the body returns to its initial position, indicating that energy is conserved.

The Force a Spring Exerts on a Body Is a Conservative