What is the relationship between Hooke's law and compression?

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SUMMARY

Hooke's Law applies equally to both compression and tension, confirming that the spring constant (k) remains consistent regardless of whether a spring is stretched or compressed. The fundamental equation governing this relationship is F = -kx, where F represents the force applied, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position. This principle is crucial for understanding the behavior of springs in various mechanical applications.

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  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and its mathematical representation
  • Basic knowledge of force and displacement concepts
  • Familiarity with mechanical properties of materials
  • Experience with spring mechanics in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the applications of Hooke's Law in real-world engineering scenarios
  • Investigate the limitations of Hooke's Law in non-linear materials
  • Learn about the energy stored in springs and its calculation
  • Study the relationship between spring constant and material properties
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Students studying physics, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of elasticity and spring mechanics.

Kamilan
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Homework Statement



I would like to know if Hooke's law applies to compression as well as tension? Meaning if the spring is stretched or compressed is the spring constant the same?

Homework Equations



F = -kx

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Kamilan said:

Homework Statement



I would like to know if Hooke's law applies to compression as well as tension? Meaning if the spring is stretched or compressed is the spring constant the same?

Homework Equations



F = -kx

The Attempt at a Solution


Yes, it works both ways.
 
Hello,

thanks for that!
 

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