When the compression of a spring is doubled,the potential energy stored in the spring is
A)the same as before.
B)doubled.
C)tripled.
D)increased by a factor of 8.
E)None of these is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential energy stored in a spring is proportional to the square of its compression (or extension). If the compression is doubled, the potential energy increases by a factor of 4, not 8.

When the Compression of a Spring Is Doubled,the Potential Energy