Spring constant
What Spring constant means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of Spring constant
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Reference: AQA
The constant of proportionality k, defined by F = k∆L, where ∆L is the extension; a stiffer spring has a larger k.
A measure of stiffness in newtons per metre (N m⁻¹), where a larger value means a stiffer spring.
Topics that use Spring constant
- Bulk properties of solids (AQA A-Level)
- Springs (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Elastic limit
- Hooke's law
- Breaking stress
- Brittle versus ductile force–extension graphs
- Conservation of energy
- Conservation of energy in mechanical systems
- Density
- Dissipation of energy during plastic deformation
Using Spring constant in the exam
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