Does buoyancy affect the extension of a real spring?

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SUMMARY

Buoyancy does affect the extension of a real spring, but the impact is negligible when the spring is submerged in air. According to Hooke's law, F=-kx, the extension x of a spring is influenced by the force applied. However, the mass of the spring and the buoyant force acting on it in air result in a minimal difference in extension compared to an ideal massless spring. Therefore, while buoyancy theoretically alters the extension, its practical effect is insignificant.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and its mathematical representation (F=-kx)
  • Basic knowledge of buoyancy principles and Archimedes' principle
  • Familiarity with the concept of mass and weight in different mediums
  • Concept of real vs. ideal springs in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the effects of buoyancy in different fluids, such as water and oil
  • Investigate the differences between ideal and real springs in various applications
  • Learn about the mathematical modeling of spring systems under different forces
  • Study the implications of buoyancy in engineering and material science
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Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the practical applications of spring mechanics and buoyancy effects.

helly_tang
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In Hooke's law, F=-kx. Assume that a mass is hung from the end of an ideal massless spring, the spring stretches a distance of x.
However, in real life the spring has mass and it is submerged in a "fluid" of air. Compared to an ideal spring, would the real spring have a slightly different extension due to buoyancy?
 
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helly_tang said:
In Hooke's law, F=-kx. Assume that a mass is hung from the end of an ideal massless spring, the spring stretches a distance of x.
However, in real life the spring has mass and it is submerged in a "fluid" of air. Compared to an ideal spring, would the real spring have a slightly different extension due to buoyancy?
Ideally, it should have an effect. But the buoyancy due to air is so negligible, that it doesn't make a big difference.
 
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