Question

a student knows the amount of stored elastic potential energy in the spring before it is released. what additional quantity can the student determine using only this piece of information?
a the mass of the ball
b the distance the ball travels
c the velocity of the ball just before it hits the ground
d the kinetic energy of the ball just as the spring is fully released

Explanation:

According to the law of conservation of mechanical energy, when the spring is fully released, the elastic - potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. So, if the elastic potential energy before release is known, the kinetic energy of the ball just as the spring is fully released can be determined. Other options (mass, distance, and velocity just before hitting the ground) require additional information like mass, initial height, and air - resistance details which are not provided.

Answer:

D. the kinetic energy of the ball just as the spring is fully released