Potential Energy - Conceptual Example 7.5-4

 

Consider two identical springs. This means that the two springs are made of the same wire, have the same diameter and number of coils and have the same un-stretched length which is equal to 10 cm. During operation, both springs work within their linearly elastic range. Spring A operates between 10 cm and 20 cm. Spring B operates between 15 cm and 25 cm.

 

Which spring stores the larger amount of energy at its longest length?

 

spring A
spring B
same energy

 

 

 

Which spring has the larger change in energy moving between its extreme operating points?

 

spring A
spring B
same energy