A force of 8 N produces an extension of 0.16 m in a spring. Calculate the spring constant.

Spring constant = 8 ÷ 0.16 = 50 N/m.

In an investigation each extra 1 N adds 2 cm of extension for the first three loads but 3.5 cm for the fourth. What does this show?

The limit of proportionality has been passed, so the relationship is no longer linear.

Explain how the spring constant can be found from a graph of force against extension.

It is the gradient of the straight-line part of the graph.

What does a large spring constant tell you about a spring?

The spring is stiff, because a large force is needed for each metre of extension.

AQA GCSE Physics 8463

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Forces

Linear and non-linear extension, and work done on a spring

2 things to know
Paper 2

Overview

Finding the spring constant from force and extension or from a graph, what linear and non-linear mean, the energy stored in a stretched spring, and a method for investigating extension.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Your recallNot started

Key term

What two measurements are needed to find the spring constant of a spring?

Key term

Describe the difference between a linear and a non-linear relationship between force and extension.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
What two measurements are needed to find the spring constant of a spring?
Model answer
The force applied to the spring and the extension that force produces.
2
Describe the difference between a linear and a non-linear relationship between force and extension.
Model answer
In a linear relationship equal increases in force always give equal increases in extension, while in a non-linear relationship they do not.
3
A force of 8 N produces an extension of 0.16 m in a spring. Calculate the spring constant.
Model answer
Spring constant = 8 ÷ 0.16 = 50 N/m.
4
In an investigation each extra 1 N adds 2 cm of extension for the first three loads but 3.5 cm for the fourth. What does this show?
Model answer
The limit of proportionality has been passed, so the relationship is no longer linear.
5
Explain how the spring constant can be found from a graph of force against extension.
Model answer
It is the gradient of the straight-line part of the graph.
6
What does a large spring constant tell you about a spring?
Model answer
The spring is stiff, because a large force is needed for each metre of extension.

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