Two Identical Springs in Parallel: Why Stiffer?

Thread starter physics20
Start date Nov 16, 2010
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Parallel Springs

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When two identical springs are placed in parallel, the effective spring constant increases because the total force required to compress the system is distributed across both springs. Each spring contributes equally to resisting the applied force, effectively doubling the spring constant compared to a single spring. This means that for the same distance of compression, the combined system requires more force than either spring alone. As a result, the parallel configuration results in a stiffer system, allowing it to better withstand applied loads. Understanding this principle is crucial in applications where enhanced stiffness is desired.

Nov 16, 2010

physics20

If there are two identical springs with same length and spring constant, why would the combination of the two springs in parallel be stiffer (that is have a greater spring constant) than the springs alone?

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Nov 16, 2010

bp_psy

Try to think what force you would have to apply to compress both springs some distance and what force you would have to apply to compress just one of them the same distance.

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