Spring Constant Force Problem Help

In summary, the "Spring Constant Force Problem Help" addresses the calculation of the spring constant in Hooke's Law, which relates the force exerted by a spring to its displacement from the equilibrium position. The problem involves understanding how to apply the formula F = kx, where F is the force applied, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement. The guide provides examples and tips for solving related problems, emphasizing the importance of unit consistency and accurate measurements.
  • #1
Thana
3
0
Homework Statement
If you apply a greater force, will the spring constant remain the same, increase, or decrease?
Relevant Equations
PEe=1/2kx^2
I'm leaning towards the same, or maybe increase. I actually have no clue.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Thana said:
Homework Statement: If you apply a greater force, will the spring constant remain the same, increase, or decrease?
Relevant Equations: PEe=1/2kx^2

I'm leaning towards the same, or maybe increase. I actually have no clue.
What is your reasoning for that? Say it in your own words.
 
  • Like
Likes MatinSAR
  • #3
When you increase the force the spring compresses more, so the spring Constant increases? Spring Constant is the resistance.
 
  • #4
The term constant in spring constant is a clue!
 
  • Haha
  • Informative
Likes MatinSAR, Steve4Physics, kuruman and 1 other person
  • #5
Thana said:
When you increase the force the spring compresses more, so the spring Constant increases? Spring Constant is the resistance.
Resistance to what? What equation comes to mind that involves the spring constant? What is the definition of each term in this equation?
 
  • #6
F=-k/x is hooke's law.
force, spring Constant, and displacement. so if we set x=2 and solve for k if force is 2 and 4, the k would be 1 and 2, so it increases?
 
  • #7
Thana said:
F=-k/x is hooke's law.
No, F=-kx
Thana said:
so if we set x=2 and solve for k if force is 2 and 4, the k would be 1 and 2, so it increases?
How can the same extension applied to the same spring result in two different forces?
 
  • Like
Likes MatinSAR
  • #8
If spring is linear, then F = kx and k is the same, a constant. Greater force gives greater deflection but k is constant and the same, as long as it is a linear spring.
 
  • #9
deajohn said:
If spring is linear, then F = kx and k is the same, a constant. Greater force gives greater deflection but k is constant and the same, as long as it is a linear spring.
Actually F=-kx. The negative sign is important because it says that the force F is always opposite to the displacement x, i.e. the force is restoring.
 
  • Like
Likes MatinSAR
  • #10
Thana said:
F=-k/x is hooke's law.
force, spring Constant, and displacement.
The value of the spring constant is found experimentally.
For linear springs, it is a constant of proportionality between force on the spring and its deformation.

Please, see:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hooke's_law#Formal_definition

1280px-Hooke%27s_Law_wikipedia.png
 
  • #11
Thana said:
so if we set x=2 and solve for k if force is 2 and 4, the k would be 1 and 2, so it increases?
How can the force change from 2 to 4 if the value of x stays constant? Are you picturing in your mind the spring?
 
  • #12
kuruman said:
Actually F=-kx
Not if by F you mean the magnitude of ##\vec{F}##. The correct expression is ##F_x=-kx##.
 
  • #13
Mister T said:
Not if by F you mean the magnitude of ##\vec{F}##. The correct expression is ##F_x=-kx##.
"F" in F = - kx is the symbol standing for a one-dimensional vector and can be positive when x < 0 or negative when x > 0. This convention is also the case in other 1-D equations such as
x = x0 + v0 t + ½ a t2
where all the algebraic variables except t represent one-dimensional vectors that can have positive or negative values.

Strictly speaking, you are right. However, it is customary to omit the subscript when vectors are either parallel or antiparallel. In the case of F = - kx, the minus sign locks "antiparallel" in the expression.
 

FAQ: Spring Constant Force Problem Help

What is the spring constant?

The spring constant, denoted as 'k', is a measure of a spring's stiffness. It is defined as the force required to compress or extend the spring by a unit distance. Mathematically, it is expressed in Newtons per meter (N/m). A higher spring constant indicates a stiffer spring that requires more force to deform it.

How do you calculate the force exerted by a spring?

The force exerted by a spring can be calculated using Hooke's Law, which states that the force (F) is directly proportional to the displacement (x) from its equilibrium position. The formula is F = -kx, where 'k' is the spring constant and 'x' is the displacement. The negative sign indicates that the force exerted by the spring is in the opposite direction of the displacement.

What units are used for spring constant and force?

The spring constant (k) is measured in Newtons per meter (N/m), while the force (F) exerted by the spring is measured in Newtons (N). Displacement (x) is measured in meters (m). This consistent use of SI units ensures that calculations are accurate and meaningful.

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

The spring constant affects how much force is required to stretch or compress the spring. A spring with a high spring constant will require more force to achieve the same displacement compared to a spring with a low spring constant. This means that stiffer springs (higher k) will deform less under the same applied force, while softer springs (lower k) will deform more easily.

Can the spring constant change over time?

Yes, the spring constant can change over time due to factors such as material fatigue, environmental conditions, and repeated use. If a spring is stretched beyond its elastic limit, it may become permanently deformed, which can alter its spring constant. Regular inspection and testing are essential to ensure that springs maintain their intended properties.

Back
Top