Spring Force Physics Example 1

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Example 1

easy
A spring with spring constant k=150 N/mk = 150 \text{ N/m} is stretched 0.2 m0.2 \text{ m} from its natural length. What is the restoring force?

Solution

  1. 1
    Apply Hooke's law: F=−kxF = -kx, where xx is the displacement from equilibrium.
  2. 2
    ∣F∣=kx=150×0.2=30 N|F| = kx = 150 \times 0.2 = 30 \text{ N}
  3. 3
    The negative sign indicates the force is directed opposite to the displacement (restoring force).

Answer

F=30 N toward equilibriumF = 30 \text{ N toward equilibrium}
Hooke's law states that the restoring force of a spring is proportional to its displacement from the natural length. The force always acts to return the spring to its equilibrium position.

About Spring Force

The restoring force exerted by a spring, proportional to how much it's stretched or compressed.

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