a compressed spring has 16.2 j of elastic potential energy when it is compressed 0.30 m. what is the spring…

Explanation:

Step1: Recall elastic - potential energy formula

The formula for elastic potential energy is $U = \frac{1}{2}kx^{2}$, where $U$ is the elastic potential energy, $k$ is the spring - constant, and $x$ is the displacement from the equilibrium position. We need to solve for $k$, so we can re - arrange the formula to $k=\frac{2U}{x^{2}}$.

Step2: Substitute given values

Given that $U = 16.2\ J$ and $x = 0.30\ m$. Substitute these values into the formula: $k=\frac{2\times16.2}{(0.30)^{2}}$. First, calculate the numerator: $2\times16.2 = 32.4$. Then, calculate the denominator: $(0.30)^{2}=0.09$. Now, find $k$: $k=\frac{32.4}{0.09}=360\ N/m$.

Answer:

D. 360 N/m