Stretching a spring practical
I can measure the extension of a spring and describe its properties as it increases in length.
Stretching a spring practical
I can measure the extension of a spring and describe its properties as it increases in length.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Stretching or compressing an object requires more than one force.
- Below the limit of proportionality, a stretched spring is not stretched permanently out of shape.
- Above the limit of proportionality, a stretched spring is stretched permanently out of shape.
Common misconception
Extension is the extra amount the spring has stretched when a bigger force is applied.
Ensure pupils fully remove each hanging mass between measurements so they see the extension of the spring from its original length each time.
Keywords
Extension - The increase from the original length of a spring when it is stretched.
Elastic deformation - The stretch of a spring that returns to its original shape when the stretching force is removed.
Inelastic deformation - The stretch of a spring as it is permanently stretched out of shape.
Limit of proportionality - The largest extension of a spring before it is stretched out of shape.
Equipment
Apparatus to measure the extension of a 'Hooke's Law spring' to destruction with hanging masses of 12.0 N in 1.0 N increments.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
extension -
the difference between the spring's stretched and unstretched length
elastic deformation -
a reversible (temporary) change in length of a spring
inelastic deformation -
a permanent change in length of a spring
