Final answer:
The potential energy stored in a spring with a spring constant of 500 N/m and a maximum stretch of 18 cm is 8.1 Joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The potential energy stored in a spring can be calculated using the formula:
PE = (1/2)kx²
Where:
- PE is the potential energy
- k is the spring constant, given as 500 N/m
- x is the maximum stretch, given as 18 cm
Plugging in the given values into the formula, we get:
PE = (1/2)(500 N/m)(0.18 m)² = 8.1 J
Therefore, the energy stored in the spring is 8.1 Joules.