What is the practical method for investigating force and extension in a spring?

To investigate force and extension in a spring, measure the spring's extension for different applied forces and plot a graph.

To start, you'll need a spring, a set of weights, a ruler, and a stand with a clamp. First, attach the spring to the clamp on the stand. Ensure the spring hangs vertically and is not stretched. Measure the initial length of the spring without any weights attached; this is your reference length.

Next, add a known weight to the spring and measure the new length of the spring. The extension is the difference between this new length and the initial length. Record the weight (force) and the corresponding extension in a table. Repeat this process by adding more weights incrementally, each time recording the new extension.

Once you have collected your data, plot a graph with force on the vertical axis (y-axis) and extension on the horizontal axis (x-axis). According to Hooke's Law, if the spring obeys this law, the graph should be a straight line passing through the origin, indicating that the extension is directly proportional to the force applied.

The gradient of this line represents the spring constant (k), which is a measure of the stiffness of the spring. You can calculate it using the formula \( k = \frac{F}{e} \), where \( F \) is the force applied and \( e \) is the extension.

Remember to ensure safety by not overloading the spring, as this could permanently deform it or cause it to snap. Also, make sure to take multiple readings for each weight to improve accuracy and reliability of your results. This practical method helps you understand the relationship between force and extension, reinforcing the principles of Hooke's Law in a hands-on manner.