What is the spring constant for a given set of scale readings and x coordinates?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the spring constant from the provided scale readings and x coordinates, the formula k = -F/x is used, where F is the force and x is the change in length. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the calculation process, with various attempts yielding inconsistent results. Clarification is provided that the spring constant can be calculated using just two measurements, focusing on the change in force and corresponding change in length. The final consensus suggests that the calculated spring constant is approximately 3 N/m, affirming that the method used is correct. Understanding the relationship between force and displacement is crucial for accurate calculations.
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Homework Statement



determine the spring constant state results in SI units.

here is the chart. this isn't making sense to me.

Scale Reading vs x coordinate
1.05 N--55 cm
.75 N---45 cm
.90 N--50 cm
1.35 N--65 cm
1.20 N--60 cm
.6 N--40 cm

thats all the info i have. I'm just not getting a solid answer


Homework Equations



k=-F/x

The Attempt at a Solution



i've attempted many different times, each time coming up with a different spring constant ranging from -3.86 to 3.
 
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To determine the spring constant, you need to find out by how much increases the force exerted by the spring, if you stretch it by a certain length. By the formula, we see that the force increases linearly, so only two measurements are enough to find out the spring constant.
 
kbaumen said:
To determine the spring constant, you need to find out by how much increases the force exerted by the spring, if you stretch it by a certain length. By the formula, we see that the force increases linearly, so only two measurements are enough to find out the spring constant.

ya I'm not really sure what your trying to say there...can you clarify what you mean by "you need to find out by how much increases the force exerted"?

i assure you this is all the info i have
 
Oo360oO said:
ya I'm not really sure what your trying to say there...can you clarify what you mean by "you need to find out by how much increases the force exerted"?

i assure you this is all the info i have

It really is enough info. Do you know what F, k and x are in the equation you've mentioned?
 
Oo360oO said:
ya I'm not really sure what your trying to say there...can you clarify what you mean by "you need to find out by how much increases the force exerted"?

i assure you this is all the info i have

you need to find out by how much increases the force exerted means that if you stretch the spring (pull it, increase it's length) then it's trying to reset the original length, therefore pulling its ends with a certain force.
 
What the formula means is;

The Force applied to something = Spring constant * The change in length (when that force is applied)

You have the force applied, you have the change in length, just bash it into your calculator, if your still struggling show us your working
 
Why are you so sure you don't have the right answer already? What methods are you using to determine different answers?
 
so is it just 3 N/m?

or do i not take the change in force?

(1.05 N-.9 N)/(.55-.50 m)

edit:i don't think I'm doing right because I'm getting different answers on this website everytime
http://www.calculatoredge.com/new/hookelaw.htm
 
Oo360oO said:
so is it just 3 N/m?

or do i not take the change in force?

(1.05 N-.9 N)/(.55-.50 m)

edit:i don't think I'm doing right because I'm getting different answers on this website everytime
http://www.calculatoredge.com/new/hookelaw.htm

Looks correct to me.
 
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