Bennett Mechanical Test Springs and Elasticity

Question 1

According to Hooke's Law, when the force applied to a spring is doubled, what happens to its extension?

Accepted Answer

It doubles

Answer

Hooke's Law states that extension is directly proportional to applied force (F = kx), so doubling the force doubles the extension.

Question 2

A spring has a spring constant of 50 N/m. How much force is needed to stretch it 0.2 meters?

Accepted Answer

10 N

Answer

Using F = kx: F = 50 N/m × 0.2 m = 10 N.

Question 3

Two identical springs connected in series (end to end) will have what effective spring constant compared to one spring?

Accepted Answer

Half as stiff

Answer

Springs in series share the same force, but each stretches, so total extension doubles and effective spring constant is halved.

Question 4

What is the SI unit of the spring constant?

Accepted Answer

Newtons per meter (N/m)

Answer

Spring constant k = F/x, so its unit is force divided by distance, which is Newtons per meter (N/m).

Question 5

Which material property describes a material's ability to return to its original shape after being deformed?

Accepted Answer

Elasticity

Answer

Elasticity is the property that allows a material to recover its original shape and size after the deforming force is removed.

Bennett Mechanical Test Practice Test