Two equal masses are attached to the two ends of a spring of spring constant k. The masses are pulled out symmetrically to stretch the spring by a length x over its natural length. The work done by the spring on each mass is
If the spring is stretched by length x, then work done = 12kx2
So work done by each mass on the spring = 14kx2
∴ Work done by spring on each mass = −14kx2
Since the the spring force and the displcement of masses are in opposite direction, work done is negative.