Final answer:
A spring-loaded piston-cylinder device is initially at equilibrium with no external forces acting on it.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the given information, a spring-loaded piston-cylinder device is initially in equilibrium with no external forces acting on it. This means that the forces applied on the piston from both sides are balanced. The system is not experiencing compression, expansion due to increased temperature, or maintaining a constant volume with no pressure change.
In this case, the correct option is A) at equilibrium with no external forces acting on it.