Does Potential Energy Work In Horizontal Plane?

AI Thread Summary
Potential energy (PE) can indeed work in a horizontal plane, particularly in the context of spring potential energy, which is defined by the formula PE = (1/2)kx^2. When a spring is compressed or elongated, the potential energy changes regardless of the orientation of the spring. The key factor is the change in the spring's length, which affects the potential energy stored in it. Therefore, as long as the spring is being manipulated, its potential energy is relevant in any plane. Understanding this concept clarifies how potential energy operates in different orientations.
zm500
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Is there such thing?
I know that PE = (1/2)kx^2.
Does PE work in horizontal plane.
I don't get the concept
So like a person is spinning the mass.
 
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Spring PE will "work" in whatever plane the spring is in. As long as the spring is being compressed or elongated, spring PE is changing.
 

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