Physics (AS & A Level) · Oct / Nov 2025 · Paper 14 · Question 22

Two identical springs have the same spring constant k. The springs are connected in parallel. The length of the unstretched springs is x. A force F is applied to the spring combination. The length of the springs is now y. Both springs are deformed within their limits of proportionality. Which expression gives the elastic potential energy stored in one of the springs?

1. A1/4 F(y – x)
2. B1/2 F(y – x)
3. C1/4 k(y – x)^2
4. Dk(y – x)^2

As printed in the paper