A metal mass hangs at rest from a vertical spring, which is stretched.
The mass is pulled down a small distance and released. The spring remains stretched throughout the motion.
The maximum distance of the mass from its original stationary position gradually decreases until the mass remains stationary again.
The mass, spring, support, Earth and surrounding air can be treated as a closed system.
Explain the changes in the energy stores of the system from the release of the mass until it becomes stationary again, and why the maximum distance from its original stationary position decreases.
Your answer should refer to the total energy of the system.