WTMA Springs and Elasticity 4

Question 1

A vehicle suspension spring supports 800 lbs and compresses 4 inches. What is its spring constant?

Accepted Answer

200 lb/in

Answer

Spring constant k = F/x = 800 lb / 4 in = 200 lb/in.

Question 2

Which type of spring stores energy primarily through twisting rather than bending or compressing?

Accepted Answer

Torsion spring

Answer

A torsion spring stores energy by twisting along its axis, as seen in clothespins and mousetrap mechanisms.

Question 3

A leaf spring in a heavy truck absorbs road shock primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Bending along its arc

Answer

Leaf springs are flat, layered metal strips that deflect by bending in an arc to absorb road shock.

Question 4

Engine valve springs must snap the valve shut quickly. They should have:

Accepted Answer

High spring constant with appropriate preload

Answer

Valve springs need high stiffness and preload to close reliably at high RPM without bouncing.

Question 5

What is 'spring preload'?

Accepted Answer

Initial compression applied before any operating load

Answer

Preload is the compression (or extension) built into a spring assembly before the working load is applied, eliminating slack and controlling initial force.

WTMA - Wiesen Test of Mechanical Aptitude Practice Test

WTMA - Wiesen Test of Mechanical Aptitude Practice Test

WTMA Springs and Elasticity 4