# A spring has a length of 5 inches when a 32-pound weight hangs from it, and a length of 12 inches...

## Question:

A spring has a length of 5 inches when a 32-pound weight hangs from it, and a length of 12 inches when a 56-pound weight hangs from it. What is the force constant of the spring?

## Spring Constant:

• The tension or compression force in a spring is proportional to the length of the spring. This is given by Hooke's Law.
• The proportionality constant in the force equation of a spring is called the spring constant.
• The spring constant force of a given spring remains constant.

## Answer and Explanation:

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Given Data

{eq}\begin{align} F_1&= 32 ~~\rm{Ib }\\ x_1&= 5 ~~\rm{in }\\ F_2&= 56 ~~\rm{Ib }\\ x_2&= 12 ~~\rm{in }\\ \end{align} {/eq}

Solution...

See full answer below.

Hooke's Law & the Spring Constant: Definition & Equation

from

Chapter 4 / Lesson 19
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After watching this video, you will be able to explain what Hooke's Law is and use the equation for Hooke's Law to solve problems. A short quiz will follow.