Problem

Problems for
Intermediate Methods in Theoretical Physics
Edward F. Redish

Stretching a spring

When we consider the properties of a spring, we typically imagine an ideal spring, which perfectly satisfies Hooke's law, T = k Δs. (I like to read this: if you pull on the opposite ends of a spring with a tension, T, the spring's length will change by an amount Δs, proportional to T with a constant k that is a property of the spring.)

In actual fact, this is an awful approximation for most extensions or compressions of the spring. What we typically do is stretch the spring some amount beyond its rest length, say by hanging a weight from it. For small displacements around that equilibrium position, the extra force exerted by the spring is linear around the resting point: "F = -kx."

Consider the spring shown in the figure. Its resting length is 5 cm. Consider that a pair of equal and opposite forces of magnitude, T, are exerted on the two ends of the spring, pulling or pushing in opposite directions. If T is positive, it means the forces are pulling to try to stretch the spring. If T is negative, it means they are trying to compress the spring.

Sketch a graph of how the length of the spring varies as a function of T, considering both positive and negative values of T and going to very large values. Make plausible guesses for the values of the length when unusual things happen. Identify the "Hooke's law" regimes and identify salient features of your graph, described what is happening at those salient points.

RETURNS

University of Maryland	Physics Department	Physics 374 Home

This page prepared by

Edward F. Redish
Department of Physics
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
Phone: (301) 405-6120
Email: redish@umd.edu

Last revision 28. September, 2005.