Physics Practical 3 To investigate the spring constants of a spring

Table of Contents
1. Aim, Introduction and Hypothesis...........................................................................................2
2. Methods......................................................................................................................................3
2.1 Apparatus and Diagram......................................................................................................3
2.2 Procedure..............................................................................................................................4
2.3 Variables...............................................................................................................................5
2.4 Safety.....................................................................................................................................6
3. Results.........................................................................................................................................7
3.1 Table and Calculations........................................................................................................7
3.2 Results Graph and Gradient...............................................................................................8
4. Discussion...................................................................................................................................9
4.1 Analysis of results.................................................................................................................9
4.2 Anomalies & Comparison to theory...................................................................................9
4.3 Evaluation of Scientific Investigation...............................................................................10
5. Conclusion and Further work................................................................................................10
6. References.................................................................................................................................12

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1. Aim, Introduction and Hypothesis
The English scientist Robert Hooke developed Hooke's Law in the 17th century, which
established the basis for knowledge about how elastic materials—especially springs—behave.
According to Hooke's Law, the force needed to compress or extend a spring is directly correlated
with how far the spring has moved from its equilibrium point. This basic idea has many
applications in engineering and physics, from materials science to mechanical systems (Serway,
2014).

Through comparing the spring constants of several springs, the experiment seeks to validate
Hooke's Law. A spring's stiffness is measured by its spring constant, or k, which also tells us
how much power is needed to create a given displacement. Hooke's Law states that the force F
applied by a spring can be found using the formula F=−kx , where x is the displacement from the
equilibrium position. The force exerted and the displacement are implied to be directly
proportional by this connection, with the spring constant acting as the proportionality constant
(Halliday, 2013).

Understanding the link between a spring's force and displacement from its equilibrium position is
essential to the experiment's physics. Plotting force versus displacement can be used to
graphically depict this connection. Several springs with different stiffness levels will be
examined in this experiment. A set of data points may be obtained by varying the masses applied
to each spring and measuring the displacements that occur. The formula k =F /x , may then be
used to determine the spring constant k for each spring using these data points (Knight, 2017).

The experiment's goal is to calculate the spring constants of various spring types and contrast
them with Hooke's Law-based theoretical predictions. In order to accomplish this goal, a
configuration including several springs of established kinds and lengths will be built. Every
spring will have masses systematically added to it, and a displacement sensor or ruler will be
used to measure the displacements that follow. The known gravitational force exerted on the
masses may be used to compute the force delivered to each spring. The spring constants may be
found empirically by graphing force versus displacement for each spring and fitting the data to a
linear regression model.

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The goal of determining the spring constants of various springs is in line with the experimental
strategy described above. The experimental results will shed light on each spring's stiffness by
methodically altering the applied force and measuring the resulting displacements. A comparison
between the theoretical values predicted by Hooke's Law and the empirically observed spring
constants will enable the law to be validated and any deviations or conflicts to be evaluated.
Thus, the goal of figuring out the spring constants and confirming Hooke's Law may be
accomplished by examining the experiment's results.

2. Methods
2.1 Apparatus and Diagram
The following is a list of tools typically used in an experiment to look into the spring constants of
a spring, along with a brief description of each tool:

 Springs (The experiment tests various stiffness levels using different kinds, materials and
lengths of springs)
 Masses (Weights are applied to the springs using standard masses, which causes them to
compress or stretch)
 Ruler (The springs' displacement from their equilibrium locations is measured with a
ruler of 1m and 30cm)
 Clamp (Springs and other equipment are fastened to the support structure using clamps
and stands)

A schematic depiction of the experimental setup for determining a spring's spring constants
(Hooke's Law) is shown below:

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The complete experimental equipment is secured in place by the support stand. The spring under
test is held firmly in place by the clamp. The force applied to the spring is measured. The
spring's movement from its equilibrium position is measured. With this configuration, weights
can be applied to the spring in a methodical manner, the force and displacement that result may
be measured, and data can be recorded.

The experiment employs a methodical approach to accomplish its goal. This is the methodical
sequence in which the experiment can be carried out:

 Setup and Calibration

 Selection of Springs
 Initial Measurements
 Application of Forces
 Data Collection
 Analysis
 Comparison and Conclusion

2.2 Procedure
The steps taken to carry out the spring experiment in the lab are explained in full below:

 Experimental Setup (In the lab, set up the support stand on a flat, sturdy surface. To
guarantee precise measurements, calibrate the apparatus in accordance with the
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 manufacturer's recommendations. Select a range of springs for testing, such as metal and
plastic springs, with varying degrees of stiffness. Note all of the spring's parameters, such
as its length, diameter, and composition.)
 Without exerting any effort, measure and note each spring's original length.
 First, fasten the spring to the support stand's clamp.
 Add masses to the spring one at a time, beginning with the smallest mass.
 Note the force that each additional mass exerts.
 For each applied force, measure the spring's displacement.
 Keep track of each spring's force and displacement values at regular intervals when force
is applied.
 In order to comply with Hooke's Law, make sure that the data is gathered inside the
springs' linear elastic range.
 If required, convert force readings to Newton (N).
 Make that the units of measurement for displacement are meters (m).
 To get accurate and repeatable results, repeat the experiment many times for each spring.
 For each mass that is added to the spring, figure out the average force and displacement.
 Reduce the amount of error sources by making sure the experimental apparatus is
accurately calibrated and stable.
 When reading measures from sensors and rulers, be careful not to make parallax
mistakes.
 For every spring, plot the force (F) against the displacement (x) on a graph.
 Regression analysis may be used to find the graph's linear portion's slope.
 According to Hooke's Law (F = kx), the gradient of the graph shows the spring constant
(k).
 Compare the theoretical predictions derived from the springs' specifications with the
empirically measured spring constants.
 Talk about any inconsistencies or possible causes of the experiment's errors.
 Make judgements about the veracity of Hooke's Law and the precision of the
experimental findings.

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2.3 Variables
The variable that the researcher consciously manipulates or modifies in the context of the spring
experiment is known as the independent variable. The spring's displacement from its equilibrium
position is the independent variable in the spring experiment. This is due to the fact that the
researcher purposefully imparts forces to the spring by adding masses, which causes it to
compress or stretch and shifts its starting position. Given that displacement is the independent
variable that measures how much the spring is stretched or compressed, meters (m) is the
appropriate unit of measurement.

The variable that is seen, measured, or recorded as a result of changes in the independent
variable is known as the dependent variable in an experiment. The force that the spring exerts is
the dependent variable in the spring experiment. The force exerted by the spring varies in
proportion to the displacement of the spring (the independent variable) caused by the application
of forces (by adding masses). Given that force is the dependent variable and measures the force
exerted by the spring as a result of its movement, Newton (N) is the appropriate unit of
measurement.

In order to guarantee that any effects detected are the result of manipulating the independent
variable and are not impacted by other factors, controlled variables are those in an experiment
that are maintained constant or unchanging throughout the experiment.

Three potential controlled variables for the spring experiment are as follows:

 Type and Material of Springs (No Unit)

 Temperature (Degrees Celsius (°C))
 Gravity (No Unit)

Ignoring these factors might lead to systemic mistakes in the experiment, which would
compromise the validity and dependability of the findings. Therefore, in order to guarantee
reliable and significant results from the spring experiment, it is imperative to keep these
controlled variables constant.

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2.4 Safety
The following are the five dangers or hazards connected to the spring experiment, along with
safety precautions to help reduce them:

 Potential for Spring Recoil

A spring may abruptly rebound when masses are added, endangering the experimenter or anyone
in the immediate vicinity. Goggles should be used to shield the eyes from flying debris. When
loading and unloading, stay out of the spring's path and keep your body parts away from it. Put
up a barrier or safety shield to stop any possible backlash.

 Risk of Pinching Fingers or Hands

Pinching hands or fingers between the spring and the clamp is a possibility when springs are
attached or removed from clamps. Take caution when handling springs, and keep your hands and
fingers away from the spring and clamp. Put on safety gloves to reduce your chance of being
hurt.

 Fall Hazard

An unstable experimental setting increases the possibility of equipment tumbling over and
injuring people from falls. Make sure the equipment and support stand are securely fastened and
steady. To reduce the risk of trips and falls, tidy the space surrounding the experimental setup.

 Electrical Hazard

If appropriate safety measures are not followed, there is a risk of electrical shock while using
electronic sensors. Make certain that every electrical device is appropriately grounded and
insulated. Make use of data gathering devices and sensors that adhere to electrical safety
regulations.

 Chemical Hazard

There is a chance of chemical exposure or skin irritation when cleaning solutions or solvents are
utilized to clean equipment. Cleaners and solvents should be handled in an area with adequate
ventilation.

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3. Results
3.1 Table and Calculations
Mass (Kg) Initial Length (cm) Final Length (cm) Extension (cm) Force (N)
0 2 2 0 0
0.1 2 3 1 0.98
0.2 2 4.5 2.5 1.962
0.3 2 7 5 2.943
0.4 2 9.5 7.5 3.924
0.5 2 11.5 9.5 4.905

F=mg

when m=0 , F=mg=0 x 9.8=0 N

when m=0 .1 , F=mg=0 .1 x 9.8=0 .98 N

when m=0 .2 , F=mg=0 .2 x 9.8=1.96 N

when m=0 .3 , F=mg=0 .3 x 9.8=2.94 N

when m=0 .4 , F=mg=0 .4 x 9.8=3.92 N

when m=0 .5 , F=mg=0 .5 x 9.8=4.9 N

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3.2 Results Graph and Gradient

According to Hooke's Law (F = kx), the gradient of the graph shows the spring constant (k).
Stated differently, the gradient represents the force (F) applied by the spring for a specific
displacement (x). The gradient of the graph may be computed mathematically by dividing the
force change (ΔF) by the displacement change (Δx) between two graph points. Consequently, a
stiffer spring is indicated by a bigger spring constant, which increases with the graph's gradient.
On the other hand, a spring with a smaller spring constant and less stiffness will have a shorter
gradient. A quantitative indicator of the stiffness of the spring under test in the experiment is
provided by the gradient of the graph.

4. Discussion
4.1 Analysis of results
Usually, the examination of the graph showing force (F) against displacement (x) for the tested
springs yields the major outcome of the experiment. As expected by Hooke's Law, the graph

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shows a linear connection between force and displacement for the tested springs. This indicates
that the force applied by the spring grows proportionately with the spring's movement. Hooke's
Law, which asserts that a spring's force is directly proportional to its displacement from the
equilibrium position, is validated by the graph analysis. The mathematical expression for the
connection is F=kx. The spring constant (k) for the spring under test is shown by the gradient of
the graph. This number expresses the spring's stiffness and shows the force needed to achieve a
certain displacement. A stiffer spring that needs more effort to create a given displacement is
indicated by a greater gradient, which equates to a higher spring constant. On the other hand, a
lower gradient means a less stiff spring and a lower spring constant.

4.2 Anomalies & Comparison to theory

Unexpected departures from the force-displacement graph's linear connection and abnormally
high differences in the estimated spring constants for certain springs are two possible anomalies
found throughout the experiment. These anomalies might result from a number of mistakes that
were made during the data gathering or experimental setup phases.

Variations in the characteristics of the springs, inconsistent sensor location, inaccurate force or
displacement measurements, and external variables like temperature swings are a few examples
of potential causes of inaccuracy that might lead to abnormalities. The data gathered may be
inaccurate, for instance, if the displacement sensor is not positioned properly or if parallax
problems occur when reading the measurements. Similar to this, changes in the springs' stiffness
or disruptions in the testing setting may cause unanticipated departures from the predicted
outcomes.

The processing and interpretation of experiment data may be impacted by any abnormalities or
mistakes. Anomalies may cause spring constants to be incorrectly calculated, which might result
in incorrect conclusions about the stiffness of the springs or the applicability of Hooke's Law.
Anomalies may also compromise the validity of the study's overall conclusions and the
dependability of the experimental outcomes. Therefore, before making firm conclusions, it might
be required to carry out the experiment again, add more controls, or carry out more research to
address and minimise these abnormalities.

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4.3 Evaluation of Scientific Investigation
Errors in the spring experiment might come from a variety of sources, including as uneven
sensor positioning, inaccurate force or displacement measurements, changes in the spring's
characteristics, and external influences. Use high-precision measurement tools, standardise
experimental settings, make sure that sensors are aligned and calibrated properly, and do
numerous trials for each spring to account for variability in order to reduce these mistakes.
Furthermore, maintaining equipment on a regular basis and following established procedures can
reduce mistakes and improve the accuracy of the data.

In general, the experiment might be made better by adding more controls to increase accuracy
and precision. This might entail employing sophisticated sensors with greater resolution, putting
in place automated data gathering systems to cut down on human error, and carrying out
exhaustive calibration processes prior to every experimental session. More reliable and broadly
applicable findings may also be obtained by expanding the sample size through the testing of a
larger variety of springs and repeating the experiment in other environmental settings. A more
thorough assessment of the experiment's results may be obtained by including statistical and
error analysis tools, which can also assist quantify uncertainties and evaluate the validity of the
experimental findings.

5. Conclusion and Further work

In conclusion, the experiment successfully accomplished its goals of determining the spring
constants of various springs and confirming Hooke's Law. The linear connection between force
and displacement on the graph supported the theory that a spring's force is directly proportionate
to its displacement. There is a linear relationship between the force exerted on the spring and the
amount of stretch or compression in the spring. If you double the force exerted on the spring, you
will double the amount of stretch or compression in the spring. The experiment's primary
finding, the computation of spring constants derived from the graph's gradient, validated the
theory and offered quantifiable proof of the tested springs' stiffness.

Potential avenues for further research might entail broadening the experiment's parameters by
examining diverse spring varieties or examining how varying environmental circumstances
impact spring behavior. A more thorough knowledge of the variables affecting spring constants

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might be attained by examining a wider variety of variables, such as temperature, material
characteristics, or spring geometry. Furthermore, investigating real-world implementations of
Hooke's Law in physics and engineering settings may provide light on a variety of phenomena.

The experiment's primary variables were force (F), displacement (x), and the spring constant (k).
The present goal is to ascertain how force and displacement relate to one another for various
spring types. Future studies might clarify the nuances of spring behavior and enhance the fields
of mechanics and materials science by improving apparatus, integrating sophisticated analytical
tools, and perfecting experimental procedures.

6. References
Halliday, D. R. R. &. W. J., 2013. Fundamentals of Physics. s.l.:John Wiley & Sons.

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Knight, R. D., 2017. Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern
Physics. s.l.:Pearson.

Serway, R. A. J. J. W. &. W., 2014. Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics.
s.l.:Cengage Learning.

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