Just wondering, how do you combine series?

[johnny872005]

just wondering, how do you combine series? I believe that springs and circuits are done the same way.
If I am combining 2 spring constants for the combined constant, isn't it just
1/k(constant) = 1/k1 + 1/k2 and just solve for k?

 

[ownsail]

wouldn't that just end up being k(constant)=k1+k2?
and hey! I think I'm in your class: Kenneth Gentle, PHY 301, University of Texas?

 

[ownsail]

just kidding! --> it doesn't end up being k=k1+k2
(DUH)

 

[phucnv87]

If all of the springs are on a line, the constants is

$$\frac{1}{k_1}+\frac{1}{2}+...+\frac{1}{k_n}$$

And if all of the springs are parallel each other, the constant is

$$k=k_1+k_2+...+k_n$$[/color]

 

[johnny872005]

nope, I got fitzpatrik phy 317k at UT ;)