Question 1: Define the spring constant and explain its significance in the context of Hooke's Law.

Answer: The spring constant, denoted by k, is a measure of the stiffness of a spring, representing the force needed to stretch or compress the spring by a unit length. It is significant because it relates the force applied to the spring to the extension or compression produced, according to Hooke's Law.

Question 2: Describe the mechanism by which a spring exerts a restoring force when deformed.

Answer: When a spring is deformed by stretching or compressing, it exerts a restoring force directed opposite to the deformation, which arises due to the elastic properties of the material, aiming to return the spring to its original length.

Question 1: A spring with a spring constant of 200 N/m is stretched by a force of 50 N. Calculate the extension produced in the spring.

Answer: Extension x = F / k = 50 N / 200 N/m = 0.25 m

Question 2: A spring is compressed by 0.1 m when a force of 15 N is applied. What is the spring constant?

Answer: k = F / x = 15 N / 0.1 m = 150 N/m

Question 1: Outline the key variables that must be controlled in an experiment to measure the spring constant accurately.

Answer: Variables include the type and material of the spring, the accuracy of the measuring instrument for extension, the temperature (to prevent material property changes), and ensuring the force applied is measured precisely and acts vertically.

Question 2: List at least two safety precautions that should be observed when performing experiments involving springs and weights.

Answer: Ensure the spring is securely fixed to prevent it from snapping or ejecting objects, and do not overload the spring beyond its elastic limit to avoid permanent deformation or breakage.

Question 1: A spring with a spring constant of 250 N/m is stretched by forces of 100 N, 150 N, and 200 N, producing extensions of 0.4 m, 0.6 m, and 0.8 m respectively. Analyse whether the data supports Hooke's Law.

Answer: The data indicates a proportional relationship between force and extension, consistent with Hooke's Law, as force increases correspond to proportional increases in extension (F = kx). The calculated spring constant from each data point is approximately 250 N/m, confirming the consistency.

Question 1: Describe how knowledge of the spring constant is used in designing vehicle suspension systems.

Answer: Engineers select springs with specific spring constants to ensure optimal absorption of shocks, providing a comfortable ride and maintaining vehicle stability. The spring constant determines how stiff or soft the suspension reacts to road irregularities.