Springs

• Aim:

  Determine the spring constant for a spring
• What is the independent variable?


  Force
• What is the dependent variable?


  Extension
• What are the controlled variables?


  Same spring
• Step 1:

  Fix the top of a spring to a clamp on a retort stand. Also fix a ruler next to it with the zero mark lined up to the bottom of the spring
• Step 2:

  For accurate measurements make sure the ruler is as close to the spring as possible, this reduces parallax error
• Step 3:

  Add slotted masses on a hanger to the spring to change the force/tension Calculate the force from weight F=mg
• Step 4:

  Plot force against extension which should show a directly proportional relationship (linear and goes through the origin)
• Step 5:

  Find the gradient of the LOBF this is equal to the spring constant in N/m or N/cm depending on what unit was used

  
• Hooke’s law?

  Elasticity