Calculating Work Done by a Spring: A Simple Solution

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving finding the work done in stretching a spring with a force constant of 2.5 x 10^3 N/m by certain distances. The correct answer to part (a) is 4.5 J and to part (b) is 3.5 J. The correct formula is W=1/2kx^2. Additionally, the conversation briefly mentions the standard SI unit for length, which is answered as meters (m).
  • #1
XxMuDvAyNexX
21
0
[SOLVED] Easy Spring Constant Question

A particular spring has a force constant of 2.5 x 10^3 N/m. (a) How much work is done in stretching the relaxed spring by 6.0 cm? (b) How much more work is done in stretching the spring an additional 2.0 cm?



I am using W=1/2kx^2 but I am not completely sure.



Well the answer are a. 4.5 J and b. 3.5 J. When I plug in I get W=1/2(2500)(8)^2. I am getting the answers 45000 and 35000. I think I am using the right equation I am just multiplying wrong or something..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What is the standard SI unit for length?
 
  • #3
Ah man! I can't believe I missed that. Thank you!
 

FAQ: Calculating Work Done by a Spring: A Simple Solution

What is a spring constant?

A spring constant, also known as the force constant or stiffness, is a measure of how much force is needed to stretch or compress a spring by a certain distance.

How do you calculate the spring constant?

The spring constant is calculated by dividing the force applied to the spring by the resulting change in length or displacement of the spring. This can be represented by the equation F = kx, where F is the force applied, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement.

What are the units of spring constant?

The units of spring constant depend on the system of units being used. In the SI system, the unit of spring constant is Newtons per meter (N/m). In the Imperial system, the unit is pounds-force per inch (lbf/in).

How does the spring constant affect the behavior of a spring?

The spring constant determines the stiffness of the spring. A higher spring constant means a stiffer spring, which requires more force to stretch or compress. A lower spring constant means a more flexible spring, which requires less force to stretch or compress. The spring constant also affects the frequency of oscillation of a spring mass system.

Can the spring constant change?

Yes, the spring constant can change depending on the material, length, and diameter of the spring. The temperature and environment can also affect the spring constant. In some cases, a spring can experience fatigue or wear and tear, causing the spring constant to decrease over time.

Similar threads

Why is my method for finding the spring constant incorrect?
Replies
17
Views
2K
Distribution of Energy when work is done on a system of 2 masses connected by a spring
Replies
17
Views
600
Energy stored in a double spring system
Replies
17
Views
815
Stretching of a rotating spring
Replies
8
Views
847
Why can we move the spring with constant speed when we apply a force?
Replies
29
Views
2K
What is the Relationship Between Force and Spring Constant?
Replies
14
Views
3K
Spring constant formlula for Force and Work Done
Replies
12
Views
1K
Calculating Work Required to Stretch a Spring by Additional Distance
Replies
1
Views
2K
Calculating the Energy Absorbed by a Spring in a Car Suspension System
Replies
5
Views
1K
Calculating the spring force constant K
Replies
14
Views
939

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top