Stretching a Spring

• Why is it important for the meter rule to be vertical?

  To ensure accurate readings of the spring's length
• What must be attached to the bottom of the spring?

  A wooden splint as a pointer
• What does the unstretched length of the spring represent?

  The length of the spring with no force applied
• How do you calculate the extension produced by a weight?

  Subtract the unstretched length from the new length
• What type of graph is produced when plotting extension against weight for a spring?

  A straight line graph through the origin
• What does a straight line graph indicate about the relationship between force and extension?

  Extension is directly proportional to weight
• What term describes the relationship between force and extension when the graph is linear?

  Linear relationship
• How does the behavior of a rubber band differ from that of a spring in this experiment?

  A rubber band shows a nonlinear relationship
• What happens to the spring if too much weight is added?

  The graph becomes nonlinear and overstretched
• What is inelastic deformation in the context of a spring?

  When the spring does not return to zero extension
• What is the limit of proportionality in a spring?

  The maximum weight before the graph becomes nonlinear
• How do you calculate the spring constant from the graph?

  Divide the force by the extension
• What does the spring constant represent?

  The stiffness of the spring
• When is the spring constant the same for any part of the graph?

  As long as we don't exceed the limit of proportionality
• What are the steps to investigate the relationship between force and extension for a spring?

  1. Set up the equipment: clamp stand, bosses, clamps, meter rule, and spring.
  2. Ensure the meter rule is vertical and the pointer is horizontal.
  3. Measure the unstretched length of the spring.
  4. Hang weights (1 Newton each) and record the new positions.
  5. Calculate the extension for each weight.
  6. Plot extension against weight on a graph.
  7. Analyze the graph for linearity and proportionality.
• What are the differences between elastic and inelastic deformation in springs?

  • Elastic deformation: Returns to original length after weight removal.
  • Inelastic deformation: Does not return to original length after weight removal.
• What are the key characteristics of the graph produced in the spring experiment?

  • Straight line through the origin indicates direct proportionality.
  • Nonlinear graph indicates overstretching and inelastic deformation.
• What is the significance of the spring constant in the context of the experiment?

  • Represents the stiffness of the spring.
  • Calculated as force divided by extension.
  • Remains constant within the limit of proportionality.