# The unstretched length of a certain spring is known to be 5 in. When a 60 lb weight is placed on...

## Question:

The unstretched length of a certain spring is known to be 5 in. When a 60 lb weight is placed on top of this spring, the spring compresses to a length of only 3 in. Determine the spring constant.

## Hooke's Law

According to Hooke's Law, when a spring is compressed by a distance {eq}x {/eq} the force of restoration is proportional to the distance and is given by:

{eq}F \ = \ k \times x {/eq}

Where:

{eq}k {/eq} - is the spring constant

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Given:

• unstretched length of spring: {eq}d \ = \ 5 \ in \ = \ 0.127 \ m {/eq}
• Weight placed: {eq}m \ = \ 60 \ lb \ = \ 27.2155 \ Kg {/eq}
• Compresse...

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.