What is the spring potential energy of a trampoline with a bowling ball on it?

Calculating Spring Potential Energy

The spring potential energy (U) of the trampoline with a bowling ball (mass = 20 kg) is calculated using the formula U = (1/2)kx^2.

The spring potential energy (U) stored in a spring can be calculated using the formula:

U = (1/2)kx^2

where k is the spring constant and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.

Given the spring constant (k) as 2000 N/m and the displacement (x) as 0.5 m, we can substitute these values into the formula to find the spring potential energy:

U = (1/2) * 2000 N/m * (0.5 m)^2

U = 500 N/m * 0.25 m^2

U = 125 J

Therefore, the spring potential energy of the trampoline with the bowling ball on it is 125 joules.