Which of the following is an example of potential energy?

• A. A ball rolling across a flat surface
• B. A moving car on a highway
• C. A stretched spring held at rest
• D. A person running

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of potential energy: it is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration, such as height above the ground or deformation of an elastic object.
2. Analyze each option to determine if the energy involved is stored (potential) or due to motion (kinetic):
3. A ball rolling across a flat surface has kinetic energy because it is in motion, not stored energy.
4. A moving car on a highway also has kinetic energy due to its velocity.
5. A stretched spring held at rest has potential energy because the energy is stored in the spring's deformation, even though it is not moving.