What type of energy is stored in a stretched spring? A elastic potential energy B gravitatianal potential energy C kinetic energy D thermal energy

## Step 1<br />The question is asking about the type of energy stored in a stretched spring. The options provided are:<br />A. Elastic potential energy<br />B. Gravitational potential energy<br />C. Kinetic energy<br />D. Thermal energy<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Elastic potential energy is the energy stored in an object when it is temporarily deformed. This deformation can be either stretching or compressing. In the case of a stretched spring, the energy stored is due to the temporary deformation of the spring, which is a characteristic of elastic potential energy.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses because of its position in a gravitational field. This is not the case with a stretched spring, as the spring's position does not determine the energy stored.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. This is not the case with a stretched spring, as the spring is not in motion.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Thermal energy is the energy that comes from heat. This is not the case with a stretched spring, as the spring is not heated.