A metal ball is placed in a device with a spring that has been compressed past its equilibrium point so

that when the spring is released, it will propel the ball into the air. The device is set up on a table one
meter above the floor. Which components make up the initial energy of the system? (1 point)

spring potential energy and kinetic energy

gravitational potential energy only

spring potential energy and gravitational potential energy

kinetic energy, spring potential energy, and gravitational potential energy

1 answer

The initial energy of the system when the spring is compressed and ready to release the ball includes both the energy stored in the spring and the gravitational potential energy due to its height above the floor. Therefore, the correct answer is:

spring potential energy and gravitational potential energy.