- #1
Francis Oliver
- 4
- 0
If two 100-N weights were attached to a horizontal spring scale would the scale read 0, 100, or 200 N, or would it give some other reading?
I guess that's right. Again I had pictured mentally that it (or some version of it) could have springs under each pan, but apparently not.HallsofIvy said:That's a balance scale. It has no springs at all!
"I'm with you."Without knowing exactly what the situation is, my best guess based on the wording of the original post is that the spring is sitting on a horizontal platform as are the "weights" and so there is no extension- the spring reads 0.
mukundpa said:Nothing to say 'Aha'. The two weights are each of 100N and attached on each end creating tension of 100N in each string and hence the reading is 100N.
Just think you are pulling a spring from only one end. It will not get extended. To get the spring stretched we require force on either end of the spring and both are equal. These balancing forces produce elongation in the spring.
In case of vertically suspended spring one force is the weight and the other force is applied by the ceiling, which is equal and opposite. Here the two weights are providing the two forces to elongate the spring and hence the tension is 100N everywhere and the reading will be 100N.
mukundpa said:Nothing to say 'Aha'. The two weights are each of 100N and attached on each end creating tension of 100N in each string and hence the reading is 100N.
Just think you are pulling a spring from only one end. It will not get extended. To get the spring stretched we require force on either end of the spring and both are equal. These balancing forces produce elongation in the spring.
In case of vertically suspended spring one force is the weight and the other force is applied by the ceiling, which is equal and opposite. Here the two weights are providing the two forces to elongate the spring and hence the tension is 100N everywhere and the reading will be 100N.
A spring scale is a device used to measure weight or force. It works by using the principle of Hooke's law, which states that the force needed to extend or compress a spring is directly proportional to the distance the spring is stretched or compressed. A spring scale typically consists of a coiled spring attached to a hook, with a pointer or digital display that indicates the weight or force applied to the spring.
A spring scale works by measuring the amount of force needed to compress or stretch a spring. When an object is placed on the hook of the spring scale, the force of the object's weight causes the spring to compress or stretch. This change in the length of the spring is then converted into a weight measurement, either through a pointer on a scale or a digital display.
Spring scales are relatively simple and inexpensive compared to other types of weight measurement devices. They are also portable and can be easily carried around for use in different locations. Additionally, spring scales do not require batteries or electrical power, making them reliable and easy to use.
The accuracy of a spring scale depends on its design and quality. Higher quality spring scales typically have a smaller margin of error and can provide more precise weight measurements. However, spring scales are not as accurate as other types of weight measurement devices, such as electronic scales, which can measure weight to the nearest gram.
To calibrate a spring scale, you will need a known weight, such as a standard weight set or a calibrated object. Place the known weight on the hook of the spring scale and adjust the scale until the pointer or digital display shows the correct weight. Repeat this process with different known weights to ensure the accuracy of the scale. It is recommended to calibrate a spring scale regularly to maintain its accuracy.