Forces 2

Question 1

How could you tell whether a spring has been elastically deformed?

Answer 1

When the force is removed, the spring returns to its original shape.

Question 2

How could you tell whether a spring has been inelastically deformed?

Answer 2

When the force is removed, the spring does not return to its original shape.

Question 3

Give the equation that links the force applied to an elastic object (F), its spring constant (k) and its extension (e):

Answer 3

Force = spring constant x extension.

Question 4

How can you tell from a graph that two variables are directly proportional to one another?

Answer 4

The line of best fit is straight and passes through the origin.

Question 5

The point at which an elastic object no longer obeys Hooke’s Law is known as:

Answer 5

Limit of proportionality.

Question 6

How could you calculate the spring constant from this graph? What is the value?

Answer 6

From a point on the line of best fit, divide the force by extension to obtain the spring constant (in this case 10 N/m).

Question 7

The units of spring constant are:

Answer 7

N/m.

Question 8

How do you determine the extension of a spring?

Answer 8

New length (with force applied) - original length (no force applied).

Question 9

Give a precaution to take when investigating the relationship between force and extension for a spring.

Answer 9

Wear safety goggles in case the spring comes free.

Question 10

How do you ensure your results are accurate when investigating the relationship between force and extension for a spring?

Answer 10

Use a set square to ensure the ruler is vertical (parallel to spring). Read ruler at eye level to avoid parallax error.

Question 11

Define the resolution of an instrument. What is the resolution of this measuring cylinder?

Answer 11

Resolution is the smallest increment that can be read off a measuring device. 1cm³.