Just wondering, how do you combine series?

  • Thread starter Thread starter johnny872005
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Series
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the combination of spring constants, drawing parallels to concepts in circuits. Participants are exploring the mathematical relationships involved in combining series, specifically in the context of springs.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the correct formula for combining spring constants, with some suggesting that the relationship is similar to that of circuit components. There is a mix of attempts to clarify the formulas for both series and parallel configurations of springs.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing different interpretations of how to combine spring constants. Some have offered formulas for both series and parallel arrangements, while others have expressed uncertainty about the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of specific courses and instructors, indicating a shared academic context among participants, which may influence their understanding and approach to the problem.

johnny872005
Messages
12
Reaction score
0
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?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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?
 
just kidding! --> it doesn't end up being k=k1+k2
(DUH)
 
Last edited:
If all of the springs are on a line, the constants is

[tex]\frac{1}{k_1}+\frac{1}{2}+...+\frac{1}{k_n}[/tex]

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

[tex]k=k_1+k_2+...+k_n[/tex][/color]
 
nope, I got fitzpatrik phy 317k at UT ;)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 56 ·
2
Replies
56
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K