Step 1: Write the expression for potential energy in S.H.M.
The potential energy of a particle executing simple harmonic motion is
\[
U=\frac12 kx^2
\]
where \(k\) is the force constant and \(x\) is the displacement from mean position.
Step 2: Use the given potential energies.
At displacement \(x\),
\[
\frac12 kx^2=9
\]
\[
kx^2=18
\]
At displacement \(y\),
\[
\frac12 ky^2=16
\]
\[
ky^2=32
\]
Step 3: Find \(x\) and \(y\) in terms of \(k\).
\[
x=\sqrt{\frac{18}{k}}
\]
\[
y=\sqrt{\frac{32}{k}}
\]
Step 4: Find the potential energy at displacement \((x+y)\).
Potential energy at displacement \((x+y)\) is
\[
U'=\frac12 k(x+y)^2
\]
\[
=\frac12 k(x^2+y^2+2xy)
\]
Substituting the values,
\[
U'=\frac12\left(18+32+2kxy\right)
\]
Now,
\[
xy=\sqrt{\frac{18}{k}}\sqrt{\frac{32}{k}}
\]
\[
=\frac{\sqrt{576}}{k}
\]
\[
=\frac{24}{k}
\]
Thus,
\[
2kxy=2k\left(\frac{24}{k}\right)
\]
\[
=48
\]
Therefore,
\[
U'=\frac12(18+32+48)
\]
\[
=\frac12(98)
\]
\[
=49\;J
\]
Step 5: Final conclusion.
Hence, the potential energy at displacement \((x+y)\) is
\[
\boxed{49\;J}
\]