Question

Springs have a specific length, or “natural” or “rest” position. How does the potential energy of the spring change when you stretch it beyond its natural position? Support your claim with evidence and reasoning.

Answer 1

When a spring is stretched beyond its natural position, potential energy is stored in the spring. The amount of potential energy stored in a spring is proportional to the amount the spring is stretched. This relationship is described by Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to its displacement from its natural position.

Since potential energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration, the potential energy of a spring increases as it is stretched beyond its natural position. The increase in potential energy is equivalent to the work done to stretch the spring.

Therefore, the potential energy of a spring changes when it is stretched beyond its natural position and increases as it is stretched further.

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