What is the increase in potential energy of a spring when it is stretched or compressed by a distance x from its equilibrium position?

1/2 kx
kx
1/2 kx²
kx²

Correct answer: 1/2 kx²

Solution

The potential energy stored in a spring follows Hooke's law and is proportional to the square of the displacement, giving the formula 1/2 kx².

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