Finding Spring Constant: Solving the Spring Problem

AI Thread Summary
To find the spring constant for a block hanging from a spring, the problem involves a 1.60 kg block and an additional 0.4 kg mass that stretches the spring by 2.00 cm. The correct approach involves calculating the total force applied to the spring, which includes the weight of both masses. The initial calculation of k as 980 N/m was incorrect due to misunderstanding the total force acting on the spring. The realization that the total force is the sum of the weights of both masses clarified the solution. Understanding this concept is crucial for accurately determining the spring constant.
rileyjah
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Spring problem!

Homework Statement



A 1.60 kg block hangs from a spring. If a 400 g body is hung from the block, the spring is stretched 2.00 cm farther. What is the spring constant?

Homework Equations



Fsp=-kdeltas

The Attempt at a Solution



(2.0Kg)(9.8)/(0.02)=k
k-980 N/m... which is wrong

So I am assuming that at equilibrium with m1 x=0, and when the second mass is added the total displacement is delta s=0.02 m - what am I missing?
 
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Are you really applying 2*9.8 Newtons of additional force to the spring?
 


Ohhhh! It makes sense now!
 


Thank you!
 


rileyjah said:
Thank you!
A pleasure :smile:
 
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