What is the spring constant of spring?

In summary, a 60 kg person drops from rest a distance of 1.20 m to a platform supported by a stiff spring. The platform then drops an additional 6 cm before coming to rest. Using the equations mgh=1/2kx^2 and 2(mgh)/x^2=k, the spring constant is found to be approximately 4.12*10^5. However, the person actually falls a total distance of 1.26 m due to the spring compressing, resulting in a slightly different answer.
  • #1
Mdhiggenz
327
1

Homework Statement


A 60 kg person drops from rest a distance of 1.20 m to a platform of negligible mass supported by a stiff spring. The platform drops 6 cm before the person comes to rest. What is the spring constant of spring?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



w=1/2kx^2

mgh=1/2kx^2

2(mgh)/x^2=k

2(60kg*9.8*1.20)/0.06m=3.92*10^5

the answer however is 4.12*10^5


What am I doing wrong?

Thank you
 
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  • #2
The mass falls further than 1.20 as the spring compresses.
 
  • #3
So would I add the 0.06m? Iam a bit confused
 
  • #4
Correct. :smile:

The question says …
Mdhiggenz said:
A 60 kg person drops from rest a distance of 1.20 m to a platform

… after that it drops a further 0.06 m, so the total drop (for the person) is 1.26 m :wink:
 
  • #5
Thx Tim
 

FAQ: What is the spring constant of spring?

What is the definition of spring constant?

The spring constant, also known as the force constant, is a measure of the stiffness of a spring. It represents the amount of force required to stretch or compress a spring by a certain distance.

How is the spring constant calculated?

The spring constant can be calculated by dividing the applied force by the resulting displacement. It can also be determined by measuring the slope of the force versus displacement graph of a spring.

What is the unit of spring constant?

The unit of spring constant depends on the system of units being used. In the SI system, it is measured in newtons per meter (N/m). In the imperial system, it is measured in pounds per inch (lb/in).

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

The spring constant determines the amount of force required to stretch or compress a spring. A higher spring constant indicates a stiffer spring and a lower spring constant indicates a more flexible spring. This affects the spring's ability to store and release energy, as well as its response to external forces.

Can the spring constant change?

Yes, the spring constant can change depending on factors such as the material, size, and shape of the spring. It can also change if the spring is stretched or compressed beyond its elastic limit, causing permanent deformation.

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