How do I convert a spring constant of N/cm to N/m

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The conversion of a spring constant from N/cm to N/m is straightforward and involves dimensional analysis. In this discussion, the spring constant of 85 N/cm is correctly converted to 8500 N/m by recognizing that 1 cm equals 0.01 m, thus multiplying by 100. The confusion surrounding stoichiometry is clarified, as it is not applicable in this context; instead, dimensional analysis is the appropriate method for unit conversion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of dimensional analysis
  • Basic knowledge of unit conversions
  • Familiarity with spring constants and Hooke's Law
  • Concept of force and its measurement in Newtons
NEXT STEPS
  • Study dimensional analysis techniques in physics
  • Learn about Hooke's Law and its applications
  • Practice unit conversions involving different measurement systems
  • Explore examples of spring constant calculations in various contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone needing to perform unit conversions in scientific contexts.

Waynerds
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


my spring constant is 85 N/cm and I have to convert to N/m

Homework Equations


why does stoichiometry not work on this? How would I approach conversions like this?

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried converting the 85 N/cm to N/m and ended up getting 85*10^2 N/m. This was using basic stoichiometry.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Usually this skill is lumped in with what is called 'dimensional analysis.' Try looking over this link: https://www.chem.tamu.edu/class/fyp/mathrev/mr-da.html and see if you can make some sense of it. Your problem is very similar to the example except you have units of cm in the denominator.
 
Waynerds said:

Homework Statement


my spring constant is 85 N/cm and I have to convert to N/m

Homework Equations


why does stoichiometry not work on this? How would I approach conversions like this?

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried converting the 85 N/cm to N/m and ended up getting 85*10^2 N/m. This was using basic stoichiometry.
Stoichiometry is what you use to balance chemical reactions.

If it takes a force of 85 N to stretch a spring 1 cm, how many Newtons will it take to stretch the same spring 100 cm (= 1 meter)?
 

Similar threads

What is a spring constant of 20 N/m used for?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
Why Isn't the Spring Force Sum of Both Ends?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Question about springs and rotational/translational energy
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Why can we move the spring with constant speed when we apply a force?
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
3K
How High Does Cheese Rise on a Released Spring?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Spring constant of a car on springs
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
8K
Work done by a force on a spring
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
What is the magnitude of the spring force given M,K and X
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Problem with solving for force constant k of spring?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Mass launched into the air by a spring
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K