A force sensor attached to the free end of a horizontal ideal spring records a force of

PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics

Problem

A force sensor attached to the free end of a horizontal ideal spring records a force of F⃗s=−25 ı^ N\vec F_s = -25\,\hat\imath\,\text{N}, where ı^\hat\imath points to the right. The spring constant is 200 N m−1200\,\text{N\,m}^{-1}. For this apparatus, any displacement larger than 20 cm20\,\text{cm} from equilibrium will cause the spring to buckle. (a) Determine the magnitude of the displacement ∣Δx∣|\Delta x| of the sensor end of the spring at the instant the −25 ı^ N-25\,\hat\imath\,\text{N} force is recorded. (b) State whether the spring is compressed or stretched at that instant, and justify your answer based on the given force vector. (c) Evaluate whether the spring operates within its safe displacement limit under these conditions. Support your conclusion with numerical evidence.

Related theory

Browse the problem library