An apple is suspended a string and a spring in parallel. When the string is cut, the apple falls, and the spring stretches and contracts repeatedly as the apple bounces. Describe the energy conversions that occur during this process.

When the string is cut:Gravitational potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.Kinetic energy is converted to elastic potential energy.Elastic potential energy is converted to kinetic energy (and heat energy)Kinetic energy is converted to gravitational energy.Repeat steps 1 to 4 until stationary.

DS
Answered by Dan S. Physics tutor

3505 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are Newton's 3 laws of motion?


A mobile phone falls to the floor. The glass screen shatters while the aluminium frame remains intact. Explain why this happens in terms of the properties of glass and aluminium.


How do you calculate efficiency?


What is the actual difference between the weight and the mass of an object?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning