A stretched spring possesses ______ energy.

Options

A. kinetic
B. elastic potential
C. electric
D. magnetic

Answer

To answer the question "A stretched spring possesses ______ energy," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Concept of Energy in Springs**:
- When a spring is stretched, it stores energy due to its deformation. This energy is related to the spring's ability to return to its original shape when the force is removed.

2. **Identifying Types of Energy**:
- The question provides four options: Kinetic Energy, Elastic Potential Energy, Electric Energy, and Magnetic Energy. We need to determine which of these is relevant to a stretched spring.

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Kinetic Energy**: This is the energy of motion. A stretched spring does not possess kinetic energy unless it is in motion.
- **Elastic Potential Energy**: This is the energy stored in elastic materials as the result of their stretching or compressing. This is relevant to springs.
- **Electric Energy**: This pertains to energy stored in electric fields and is not applicable to springs.
- **Magnetic Energy**: This relates to energy stored in magnetic fields and is also not applicable to springs.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Since a stretched spring stores energy due to its deformation, the correct type of energy is **Elastic Potential Energy**.

5. **Energy Formula**:
- The formula for the elastic potential energy (U) stored in a stretched spring is given by:
\[ U = \frac{1}{2} k x^2 \]
where \( k \) is the spring constant and \( x \) is the amount of stretch.

### Final Answer:
A stretched spring possesses **Elastic Potential Energy**.

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