In the unstretched position the coils of the 3-lb spring are just touching one another, as shown in part a of the figure. In the stretched position the force P, proportional to x, equals 200 lb when x = 20 in. If end A of the spring is suddenly released, determine the velocity v_A of the coil end A, measured positive to the left, as it approaches its unstretched position at x = 0. What happens to the kinetic energy of the spring?

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(a) -20"ㅡ X- P (b) A