Answer:
6.4 Joules
Explanation:
For springs, Hooke's law states that;
F = ke
where F is a force applied, e is the extension and k is the spring constant.
Work done in a spring is the same as the potential energy stored in the spring. So that;
Work done = [tex]\frac{1}{2}[/tex] k[tex]e^{2}[/tex]
e = [tex]x_{2}[/tex] - [tex]x_{1}[/tex]
[tex]x_{2}[/tex] = 4 cm = 0.4 m
[tex]x_{1}[/tex] = 0
So that,
[tex]x_{2}[/tex] - [tex]x_{1}[/tex] = 0.4 m
Thus,
Work done = [tex]\frac{1}{2}[/tex] x 80 x [tex](0.4)^{2}[/tex]
= 40 x 0.16
= 6.4
Work done = 6.4 J
The work done by the force on the spring is 6.4 Joules.