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simplyphysics
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Homework Statement
If you change the diameter of a spring does it affect the spring constant? Assume the spring length, if fully extended, was kept constant.
Homework Equations
F=kx; F=mg
The Attempt at a Solution
From my research the spring constant (k) is measured by applying a mass and determining the vertical displacement (x) of the spring. The spring force is just equal but opposite to that of the force of gravity. Using Hooke's law the spring constant of a specific spring can be determined.
I know that the spring constant tells us the stiffness of the spring. I'm not sure how this would change if we were to use the same spring, unravelling it and then creating a larger diameter but lowering the number of coils. I think this would be difficult to test experimentally as the spring state would definitely be compromised. For some reason my mind is fuzzing out and I cannot think of whether changing the number of coils would affect the spring constant or stretch. I think maybe the spring would not stretch as far, keeping the mass applied the same, the spring constants would be different...but I'm still not sure. Help?