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2.8 Springs

Part of Force and Translational Dynamics in AP® Physics 1: Algebra-Based. Read the opening section, then create a free account for the full interactive lesson, practice, and progress tracking.

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Springs

Springs are objects in physics that can compress and stretch. A spring’s equilibrium point is the length of the spring without any forces acting on the spring. When a spring stretches or compresses, the spring will exert a force in the direction of this equilibrium point. Spring force is represented with the variable Fs. This force can be described with Hooke’s Law, as seen below.
Fs=−kΔxF_s=-k\Delta x
  • Fs{F_s} represents the spring force
  • k{k} represents the spring constant
  • Δx{\Delta x} represents the displacement of the spring, with stretching being positive and compressing being negative

In this unit

9 lessons

  1. 2.1What is Force?Preview lesson
  2. 2.2Newton's LawsPreview lesson
  3. 2.3Gravitational ForcePreview lesson
  4. 2.4FrictionPreview lesson
  5. 2.5SystemsPreview lesson
  6. 2.6Inclined PlanesPreview lesson
  7. 2.7Tension & Pulley SystemsPreview lesson
  8. 2.8SpringsThis lesson
  9. 2.9Circular MotionPreview lesson

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