Hooke's Law - System of Springs

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the equivalent spring constant for a system of springs in parallel and series. After initially providing the information that the spring constant for system A is k, it is stated that system B has a spring constant of k/2 and system C has a spring constant of 2k. The conversation then moves on to discuss a new system and how to apply the same principles to determine the equivalent spring constant. The solution is provided by replacing the two springs in parallel with the equivalent spring constant and then considering the remaining springs in series. The conversation concludes with the confirmation that the problem has been solved.
  • #1
noobish
12
0

Homework Statement



http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/3814/hookes.jpg [Broken]

Assuming spring constant for system A (left) is k
Then system B (middle) is k/2 and system C (right) is 2k

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/7238/87792676.jpg [Broken]

How about this system? Thanks for helping.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
replace the two springs in parallel with the spring with the equivalent spring constant. Now you have two springs in series.
 
  • #3
noobish said:

How about this system? Thanks for helping.


How about it? Do you have a question? Showing us pretty graphs doesn't tell anyone what you're stuck on. Also, those bold sentences are there for a reason: use them. State the question, give the relevant equations, and show your attempt at a solution, and then maybe I can give you a hint (or someone else can -- I'm a beginning physics student as well, so I make a lot of mistakes!).
 
  • #4
noobish said:
Assuming spring constant for system A (left) is k
Then system B (middle) is k/2 and system C (right) is 2k
Assuming you understand these statements, which describe the effect of adding springs in series or parallel, you can apply them directly to the new system. Hint: Start by replacing the bottom two springs by with an equivalent single spring.

Looks like rock.freak667 beat me too it! :smile:
 
  • #5
Doc Al said:
Assuming you understand these statements, which describe the effect of adding springs in series or parallel, you can apply them directly to the new system. Hint: Start by replacing the bottom two springs by with an equivalent single spring.

Looks like rock.freak667 beat me too it! :smile:

rock.freak667 said:
replace the two springs in parallel with the spring with the equivalent spring constant. Now you have two springs in series.

Thanks. Solved it. =D
 

1. What is Hooke's Law?

Hooke's Law is a principle in physics that states that the force required to stretch or compress a spring is directly proportional to the distance it is stretched or compressed.

2. Who discovered Hooke's Law?

Hooke's Law was first proposed by English scientist Robert Hooke in the 17th century.

3. How is Hooke's Law expressed mathematically?

Hooke's Law can be expressed as F = -kx, where F is the force applied to the spring, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position.

4. What is the significance of Hooke's Law?

Hooke's Law is significant because it helps us understand the behavior of elastic materials, such as springs, and allows us to make accurate predictions about their behavior under different conditions.

5. Are there any limitations to Hooke's Law?

Yes, Hooke's Law is only applicable to materials that behave elastically, meaning they return to their original shape after the applied force is removed. It also assumes that the spring is being stretched or compressed within its elastic limit, beyond which the material may permanently deform.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
309
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
31
Views
972
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
35
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top