Solving Spring Constant: A 760N Weight Puzzle

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the spring constant using a weight of 760 N that compresses a spring by 0.82 cm. The correct spring constant is determined to be 926.83 N/m, derived from the formula FApplied = kx. The user initially miscalculated the spring constant but successfully solved for the weight of another person compressing the spring by 0.34 cm, yielding an answer of 315.12 N. The importance of unit conversion and precision in calculations is emphasized.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law (FApplied = kx)
  • Knowledge of unit conversion (N to N/m)
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Review Hooke's Law applications in physics
  • Practice unit conversion techniques for force and displacement
  • Explore advanced spring constant calculations in different contexts
  • Investigate real-world applications of spring mechanics in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of spring constant calculations and applications.

GeoKenshin
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Homework Statement



A person who weighs 760 N steps onto a spring scale in the bathroom, and the spring compresses by 0.82 cm.

a. What is the spring constant?

B. What is the weight of another person who compresses the spring by 0.34 cm?


Homework Equations



FApplied = kx

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm having trouble with part A. I got the correct answer of 315.12195N for part B.

For part a i set it up as 760 = .82k and got 926.829 N/m but webassign will not accept it as correct. It has to be right because I got part B of the question correct with it.

I tried 927, 926.8 and 926.82926 N/m. Am I doing something wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Be careful with units.
 
ah...i see now. thanks!
 

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