Measure weight of object hanging from a spring

In summary, the task is to weigh an object with a mass greater than 25 N using a spring scale with a maximum value of 25 N. This must be done without breaking the scale and using commonly available equipment. One possible solution is to hang the object from the spring and submerge it in a bucket of water to measure the buoyant force, which can then be used to calculate the weight of the object. Another approach could involve using pulleys to distribute the weight and reduce the load on the spring scale.
  • #1
kitty9035
17
0

Homework Statement



A spring that can be considered ideal hangs from a stand. Suppose the spring is used in a spring scale that is limited to a maximum value of 25 N, but you would like to weigh an object of mass M that weighs more than 25 N. YOu must use commonly available equipment and the spring scale to determine the weight of the object without breaking the scale. Show one way that the equipment you choose could be used with the spring scale to determine the weight of the object.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



How can you do this?? I'm confused
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
you could hang the mass from the spring into a bucket of water
 
  • #3
I imagine you could also use pulleys.
 

1. How does a spring scale measure the weight of an object?

A spring scale measures weight by using Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the distance it is stretched or compressed. The scale has a spring attached to one end and a hook or clip on the other end. When an object is hung from the hook, it stretches the spring, and the amount of stretch is directly related to the weight of the object.

2. Is a spring scale accurate for measuring weight?

Yes, a spring scale can be very accurate for measuring weight. The accuracy depends on the calibration of the scale and the precision of the spring used. However, it is important to note that spring scales may not be as accurate when measuring very light or heavy objects.

3. How do you calibrate a spring scale?

To calibrate a spring scale, you need to use known weights and adjust the scale until it displays the correct weight for each known weight. This ensures that the scale is accurate and can be relied upon for future measurements.

4. What is the maximum weight that can be measured with a spring scale?

The maximum weight that can be measured with a spring scale depends on the strength and size of the spring used in the scale. However, most spring scales have a maximum weight limit of around 5-10 kilograms (or 11-22 pounds).

5. Can a spring scale be used to measure the weight of liquids or gases?

No, a spring scale is designed to measure weight only. Liquids and gases do not have a consistent weight, as they can change in volume depending on their container and environmental factors. To measure the weight of a liquid or gas, a different type of scale, such as a balance scale, should be used.

Similar threads

Spring with mass hangs from the ceiling
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
471
Finding effective spring constants
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Hooke's Law Lab Spring Constant Calculation
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
I What is the Uncertainty in the Total Weight of a Collection of Similar Items?
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
12
Views
757
I Spring balance analysis from a system point of view
    • Classical Physics
Replies
24
Views
715
Determining mass of a weight on a three spring scale setup
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
3K
Elastic potential energy (spring) problem
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Minimum spring force required to keep a car level
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
34
Views
4K
Find Unknown Weight w/ Ideal Spring Problem
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Question regarding finding mass given a weight and gravity
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top