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AP Physics C: Mechanics 2.8.B Equivalent Spring Constants

Practise AP Physics C: Mechanics 2.8.B by finding equivalent spring constants for series and parallel arrangements and predicting extension or oscillation period.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2024
Course
AP Physics C: Mechanics

Exam points

  • Compare series and parallel spring constants to determine the ratio of equilibrium extensions.
  • Use the parallel equivalent spring constant in T = 2π√(m/k) to predict the new oscillation period.

2.8.B—Describe the equivalent spring constant of a combination of springs exerting forces on an object question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

． A block of mass M is suspended from two identical springs of negligible mass，spring constant k and unstretched length L ．First，one spring is attached to the end of the other spring． The block is then attached to the end of the second spring and slowly lowered to its equilibrium position．The two springs stretch a total distance of X1X_{1} ，as shown in Figure 1 above． Next，the springs are hung side by side．The block is attached to the end of the springs and again slowly lowered to its equilibrium position．The springs each stretch a distance of X2X_{2} ，as shown in Figure 2 above．Which of the following equations correctly shows the relationship between X1X_{1} and X2X_{2} ？

A

X1=X2X_{1}=X_{2}

B

X1=2X2X_{1}=\sqrt{2} X_{2}

C

X1=2X2X_{1}=2 X_{2}

D

X1=4X2X_{1}=4 X_{2}

E

X1=8X2X_{1}=8 X_{2}

Figure for Question 2.8.B—Describe the equivalent spring constant of a combination of springs exerting forces on an object question 1 — AP Physics C: Mechanics
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