What is the Relationship Between Spring Stretching Distance and Applied Work?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the stretching distance of a spring and the work applied to it, framed within the context of a force/equilibrium problem rather than an energy problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the stretching of a spring by considering how the weight of different portions of a rod affects the spring's stretch. Questions arise regarding the distribution of weight and its impact on the stretching of the spring segments.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, providing hints and reasoning to guide understanding. There is a focus on breaking down the problem into manageable parts, with some participants confirming the reasoning behind their calculations.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a lack of prior experience with similar problems, which may influence the depth of discussion and understanding. The problem involves analyzing a diagram that is referenced but not included in the text.

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Homework Statement


See image attachment

Homework Equations


Fs = kx
Es = 1/2 kx^2
ET1 = ET2 which is Eg1 + Ek1 + Es1 + work applied = Eg2 + Ek2 + Es2 + friction

The Attempt at a Solution


grade 12. Please help i never did anything like this.
 

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This is a force/equilibrium problem, not an energy problem.

A hint to start you off: If you look at diagram I and imagine the spring cut into three pieces, how much does each piece stretch?
 
each piece will stretch 1 cm
 
firezap said:
each piece will stretch 1 cm
Good. So now you know that the weight of the complete rod will stretch one of the spring pieces by 1 cm. How much will the weight of 1/3 of the rod stretch one of those spring pieces?

Use this reasoning to figure out how much each spring stretches in diagram II.
 
1/3 x 1cm = 1/3cm
is it 1/3cm + 2/3cm + 3/3cm = 2cm
 
firezap said:
1/3 x 1cm = 1/3cm
is it 1/3cm + 2/3cm + 3/3cm = 2cm
Good!
 

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