ASVAB Practice Test

What kind of energy is stored in a compressed spring?

1. Thermal energy

2. Kinetic energy

3. Chemical energy

4. Potential energy

The correct answer is: Potential energy

A compressed spring contains potential energy. This type of energy is stored in objects that have the capacity to do work due to their position or state. When a spring is compressed, the potential energy is stored in the spring by deforming its shape. Thermal energy (A) is the energy in a system due to its temperature, while kinetic energy (B) is the energy a moving object has due to its motion. Both of these options do not directly apply to a compressed spring. Chemical energy (C) is the energy stored in the bonds of atoms and molecules. While some springs may use chemical reactions to store potential energy, this is not commonly the case for compressed springs. Therefore, potential energy (D) is the most appropriate answer for this question.