Why Do Spring Constants Change in Series and Parallel Combinations?

Thread starter envanyatar
Start date Jun 10, 2005
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Combinations Constant Spring Spring constant

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When springs are combined in series, the total spring constant is calculated using the formula 1/k_total = 1/k1 + 1/k2, resulting in a lower total spring constant, such as 1/2k for two identical springs. In contrast, when springs are combined in parallel, the total spring constant is the sum of the individual spring constants, leading to a higher total, exemplified by 3k for three identical springs. This difference arises from the way forces and displacements are distributed in each configuration. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding these principles for applications in physics and engineering. Overall, the behavior of spring constants in series and parallel arrangements is fundamental to mechanics.

Jun 10, 2005

envanyatar

In springs, when two springs are combined in series why is the total spring constant of the system 1/2k, and when three springs are combined in parallel, why is the total spring constant 3k?

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Jun 10, 2005

whozum

I could blabber, but the first site that showed up on google (hint) gave a better explanation.

http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/SpringsTwoSpringsinSeries.html

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