For a stretched spring which is released and undergoing oscillations, which of the following statements is correct?

A) Potential energy maximum at only right extreme position
B) Potential energy maximum at only left extreme position
C) Potential energy maximum at both the extreme positions
D) Potential energy maximum at equilibrium position

The correct answer is option C: Potential energy maximum at both the extreme positions. The potential energy in a spring is maximized when it is either fully stretched or fully compressed, which are the extreme positions. At the equilibrium position, potential energy is zero since displacement is zero.
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Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-04

In the context of a stretched spring that is released and undergoing oscillations, the potential energy of the system is determined by the position of the spring relative to its equilibrium position.
When a spring is oscillating, the energy in the system is constantly transforming between potential energy and kinetic energy:

Potential Energy (PE) : This is the energy stored in the spring when it is either compressed or stretched from its equilibrium position. It is given by the formula:
PE = 2 1 ​ k x 2
where k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.

Kinetic Energy (KE) : This is the energy of motion. It is highest when the spring passes through its equilibrium position because that's when its speed is greatest.

Energy Transformation : As the spring moves from one extreme end to another, its potential energy is at its maximum at the extremes of the oscillation (either completely stretched or compressed) because the displacement x is greatest there.


Therefore, the correct statement regarding the potential energy of an oscillating spring is:

(C) Potential energy maximum at both the extreme positions

At these extreme positions, the spring is fully stretched or compressed, resulting in the maximum storage of potential energy.

Answered by JessicaJessy | 2025-07-06