When two identical ideal springs

PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics

Problem

When two identical ideal springs, each with spring constant

k

, are connected in parallel and stretched by the same amount, what is the effective spring constant

k_{\text{eff}}

of the combination? (a)

k_{\text{eff}} = k

(b)

k_{\text{eff}} = \sqrt{2}\,k

(c)

k_{\text{eff}} = 2k

(d)

k_{\text{eff}} = \dfrac{k}{2}