Answer: a) extension = 0.12m, b) work done = 2.16 J
Step-by-step explanation: according to hooke's law, provided that elastic limit is kept constant force (f) is proportional to extension (e).
F = ke, k = F / e.
F1/e1 = F2/e2
F1 = 15 N, e1 = 0.10m, F2= 18 N, e2 =?
15/0.10 = 18/e2
e2 = 18 * 0.10/ 15
e2 = 1.8/15
e2 = 0.12m.
Work done at this extension = F2 * e2
Work done = 18 * 0.12 = 2.16 J