How to Calculate Spring Stretch Using Hooke's Law
Learn how to calculate spring stretch with Hooke's Law: F = k * x, and find practical applications for this physics concept.
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To calculate spring stretch, use Hooke's Law: F = k * x, where F is the force applied to the spring, k is the spring constant, and x is the spring's extension (or compression). Rearrange this to x = F / k. Measure the force (F) in Newtons and the spring constant (k) in Newtons per meter (N/m) to find the stretch (x) in meters.
FAQs & Answers
- What is Hooke's Law? Hooke's Law states that the force required to extend or compress a spring by some distance is proportional to that distance. Mathematically, it's expressed as F = k * x.
- How do I measure the spring constant (k)? To measure the spring constant (k), you can apply a known force to a spring and measure the resulting stretch. Use the formula k = F / x, where F is the force applied and x is the stretch in meters.
- What units are used for measuring force and spring constant? Force is measured in Newtons (N), and the spring constant is measured in Newtons per meter (N/m).
- How can I calculate spring compression? You can calculate spring compression in the same way as stretch. Simply apply a force to the spring and use the formula x = F / k to find the amount of compression.