How Do You Calculate Spring Constant and Package Weight?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the spring constant and the weight of a package using Hooke's Law. The user initially attempts to derive the spring constant (k) using the formula k = -F/x, where F is the force applied and x is the displacement. The correct answers determined are that the pointer indicates 23 mm when no package is hung, and the weight of the third package is 45 N. The user confirms the calculations after some initial confusion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and its formula: F = -kx
  • Basic knowledge of units of force (Newtons) and displacement (millimeters)
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics and behavior under load
  • Ability to perform basic algebraic manipulations
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  • Study the principles of Hooke's Law in-depth
  • Learn how to calculate spring constants for various materials
  • Explore applications of spring mechanics in engineering
  • Investigate methods for measuring force and displacement accurately
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Students in physics, engineers working with mechanical systems, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of spring mechanics and force measurement.

queenspublic
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1. Problem

A spring with a pointer attached is hanging next to a scale marked in millimeters. Three different packages are hung from the spring, in turn, as shown below.

07_39.gif


(a) Which mark on the scale will the pointer indicate when no package is hung from the spring?
(a) ? mm

(b) What is the weight W of the third package?
(b) ? N

2. Attempt at a solution

240 N - 110 N = 130 N
60 mm - 40 mm = 20 mm

130 N = -k * 20 mm <-- Is this formula correct? If not, how do I find the answers to (a) and (b)?
k = -6.5
 

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Never mind. I found the answers.

(a) 23 mm
(b) 45 N

Thanks for nothing. lol.
 
Last edited:

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