A force-extension graph for a spring is shown - Edexcel - A-Level Physics - Question 8 - 2023 - Paper 2

To calculate the work done on the spring, we use the area under the force-extension graph. The work done (W) for a spring can be determined using the formula:

$W = \frac{1}{2} \times F \times x$

Where:

• F is the force applied
• x is the extension.

From the graph, the force at an extension of 0.15 m is approximately 2.5 N. Therefore:

$W = \frac{1}{2} \times 2.5 \times 0.15 = 0.1875 \text{ J}$

Hence, using the options provided, we find that:

• Option B) $0.5 \times 0.15 \times 2.5$ simplifies to the correct multiplication to yield the work done. Thus, the correct answer is B.