Solving 2 Spring Problems: Extension & Tension Calculation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around two problems involving spring mechanics, specifically focusing on the calculations of extension and tension in springs using Hooke's law. The subject area includes concepts of elasticity and forces in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Hooke's law to calculate the extension and tension in the springs. There are attempts to solve the first problem, while the second problem raises questions about the correct approach to determine the tension and spring constant.

Discussion Status

Some participants have made attempts to solve the first problem, with varying degrees of success. The second problem is still under exploration, with participants questioning the correct interpretation of the spring constant and the relationship between force and extension.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the calculations for the second problem, particularly in how to apply the principles of Hooke's law to the scenario involving two identical springs and the weight attached to them.

54088
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1.A stell spring has a spring constant of 25Nm^-1.Calculate
a.the extension of the spring when the tension in it is equal to 10N,
b.The tension in the spring when it is extended by 0.50m from its unstretched length.

2.Two identical stell springs of length 250mm are suspended vertically side-by-side from a fixed point. A 40N weight is attached to the ends of the two springs. The length of each spring is then 350mm. calculate:
a. The tension in each spring,
b. The extension of each spring.
c. The spring constant of each spring.:eek:
 
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Any attempts?
 
radou said:
Any attempts?

By using Hooke's law F = kL...
a. 10 = 25 x L, L = 0.4m
b. F = 25 x 0.5 = 12.5N
 
Last edited:
Looks good.
 
radou said:
Looks good.

but i don't know how to do question 2?
a. 40/2 = 20N
b. 350mm - 250mm = 100mm
c. 20 = 350k...?
 
Last edited:
54088 said:
but i don't know how to do question 2?
a. 40/2 = 20N
Yes, of course. (Note that you were told the two springs were identical.)

b. 350mm - 250mm = 100mm
Good.

c. 20 = 350k...?
No, it is the extension that is important: 20= 100 k.
 

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