(5) Forces and Elasticity

Question 1

Explain the relationship between the force applied and the extension of an elastic object:

Answer 1

The extension is directly proportional to the force applied, provided that the limit of proportionality isn’t exceeded

Question 2

Give examples of forced involved in stretching, bending or compressing an object:

Answer 2

Stretching involves pulling forces, bending involves pushing and pulling and compressing involved pushing forces.

Question 3

What’s the difference in applying 1 forced vs multiple forces?

Answer 3

Applying 1 force will cause movement in an object whereas applying multiple forces will change the shape of the object.

Question 4

Describe the difference between elastic and inelastic deformation:

Answer 4

Elastic deformation (changing shape) is reversible however inelastic deformation is irreversible and won’t return to the original shape (another term used is plastic deformation)

Question 5

What is the equation for spring constant and extension?

Answer 5

Force = spring constant x extension
(Compression can replace extension)

Question 6

What type of energy is stored in a stretched spring?

Answer 6

Elastic potential energy

Question 7

What is Hookes law?

Answer 7

The extension of the spring is directly proportional to the force applied as long as its limit of proportionality isn’t exceeded. If an object doesn’t obey Hookes law then there is a non linear relationship between extension and force.

Question 8

REQUIRED PRACTICAL 6: relationship between force and extension of a spring

Answer 8

Hookes law. You need a spring, clamp, clamp stand, weight stack (10N), meter ruler. Measure the extension for each weight added on, calculate mean afterwards.