Two different springs in parallel

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    Parallel Springs
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a system of two springs arranged in parallel, where a total force of 56 N is applied, and the spring constants for the two springs are given as 1.7 N/m and 7.7 N/m. The original poster expresses confusion about how both springs can stretch the same length under this force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the original poster's understanding of the stretching of the springs and the relationship between force and spring constant. They inquire about the specifics of the problem statement and suggest checking the units of the equations provided. There is also a focus on determining the amount of stretch that results in the total force of 56 N.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on how to approach the problem. Some have reiterated the need for clarity on the problem statement and have prompted the original poster to consider the forces acting on each spring in relation to the total force.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that additional context, such as a diagram or further details, may be necessary to fully understand the problem. The original poster's equations have been questioned for unit consistency, suggesting potential misunderstandings in the setup.

Westin
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Homework Statement



In a parallel spring system, the springs are positioned so that the 56N stretches each spring equally. The spring constant for the left-hand spring, kl, is 1.7Nm and the spring constant for the right-hand spring, kr, is 7.7Nm.[/B]

Homework Equations


Momentum Principle
s=mg/2k
ks= mg/s
[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm confused with how they'll stretch the same length.. need help

(1.7N/m)(56N)= 95.2m
(7.7N/m)(56N)= 431.2m[/B]
 
Last edited:
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Check the units on your two equations.

If each spring stretches x meters, what is the force for each of the springs (in terms of x)? If the sum of the two spring forces is 56 N, what is x equal to?

Chet
 
Is that the entirety of the problem statement or was there a specific question associated with the description? Is there any other context we need to be aware of? A diagram perhaps?
 
Chestermiller said:
Check the units on your two equations.

If each spring stretches x meters, what is the force for each of the springs (in terms of x)? If the sum of the two spring forces is 56 N, what is x equal to?

Chet
gneill said:
Is that the entirety of the problem statement or was there a specific question associated with the description? Is there any other context we need to be aware of? A diagram perhaps?
Screen Shot 2015-02-13 at 5.57.38 PM.png
 
Ah. Much clearer! The two springs are constrained to stretch by the same amount, and both contribute to the total force that supports the weight. You have to figure out what amount of stretching will result in the desired total.
 
gneill said:
Ah. Much clearer! The two springs are constrained to stretch by the same amount, and both contribute to the total force that supports the weight. You have to figure out what amount of stretching will result in the desired total.

Would I use s = mk/2k ? I am confused on this question because I am not sure how to find an equal stretch with a constant force between the two springs.
 
Westin said:
Would I use s = mk/2k ? I am confused on this question because I am not sure how to find an equal stretch with a constant force between the two springs.
Why don't you try answering the questions I posed in post #4? These will lead you directly to the answer.

Chet
 

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