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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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).
  4. 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.