Simple Finding Spring Constant

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the spring constant for various springs in a lab setting. Participants explore methods for measuring and calculating the spring constant, including the use of a digital force gauge and basic principles of physics related to Hooke's law.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant recalls a previous physics class experience and seeks guidance on measuring spring constants using multiple springs and a digital force gauge.
  • Another participant confirms that the unit of the spring constant is N/m and suggests a method involving a single mass and measuring the extension of the springs.
  • A participant expresses a desire for accurate calculations and questions how to convert measurements from centimeters to meters in the context of calculating the spring constant.
  • Participants discuss the relationship between force, mass, gravity, and displacement in the context of Hooke's law, with formulas provided for calculating the spring constant.
  • One participant requests clarification on acronyms and expresses intent to use a digital force gauge for precise measurements.
  • Some participants suggest looking for explanations online and express skepticism about the original poster's memory of the topic.
  • Clarification is provided regarding the variable 'x' as the distance the spring is stretched or compressed from its equilibrium position.
  • A participant questions whether a force gauge is necessary if using the method described.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the formula for calculating the spring constant and the definition of the variables involved. However, there is some disagreement regarding the necessity of a force gauge and the clarity of the original poster's understanding of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the original poster's grasp of the concepts due to the time elapsed since their last study of the material. There are also varying opinions on the best approach to accurately measure the spring constant.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or individuals interested in experimental physics, particularly those looking to understand the practical application of Hooke's law and methods for measuring spring constants.

BLKKROW
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Well i remember doing this in physics class like 4 years ago, and it slipped my mind.

I basically am doing a project of taking like 20+ springs and comparing there spring constants.

Am all of this will be in a lab. And if i remember correctly k=(Newtons)/ meter

i know this is probably wrong, but i can get my hands on a digital force gauge and any building materials.

can someone please point me in the right direction.

BTW i am planing on getting my doctorate in the physics field i just love it.
 
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The unit of the spring constant is indeed N/m as you pointed.
If your lab consists only by comparing the spring constants then it's easy. All you need are the springs, a single mass and a ruler. Not even a single calculator.
Put the springs in a vertical position and plug the mass at the bottom of the springs. Measure how much the springs expends. The one that expends the most has the smallest spring constant and the one that expends the less has the biggest spring constant.
However if you want to calculate their constants, it's another story.
 
i do want an accurate calculation. with a number.

each spring will only move a couple centimeters. so if k=n/m would i just divide the Newtons by the fraction of the centimeters/meter
 
Last edited:
F=mg=kx

k=mg/x
 
Savant13 said:
F=mg=kx

k=mg/x

please explain your acronyms ?

also i was planing on using a digital force gauge, and push the spring a set distance, and use the force it took to get to that distance as an accurate measurement?
 
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Surely uou can find explanations on line!there you will get a more complete description..good practice if you really plan on studying physics...
if you studied this four years and and can't remember after seeing the formulas I'd suggest you rethink your direction.
 
Naty1 said:
Surely uou can find explanations on line!there you will get a more complete description..good practice if you really plan on studying physics...
if you studied this four years and and can't remember after seeing the formulas I'd suggest you rethink your direction.

4 years ago, please read the original post. I was actually a freshman in a senior class. And i was the only one to get a perfect score on our two finals. I am a smart person just can't remember cause it was 4 years ago

spring constant=(mass)(gravity)/ x

what is x??
 
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x is the distance that the spring has been stretched or compressed away from the equilibrium position, which is the position where the spring would naturally come to rest (usually in meters),

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hooke's_law
 
Bright Wang said:
x is the distance that the spring has been stretched or compressed away from the equilibrium position, which is the position where the spring would naturally come to rest (usually in meters),

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hooke's_law


Thank you! For explaining

Also using this method i wouldn't need a force gauge correct?
 

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