Discussion

Based on the experiment conducted, the spring constant and natural frequency is
determined. Hooke's Law states that the restoring force of a spring is directly
proportional to a small displacement. In equation form, F = -kx where x is the
displacement of the spring. As the displacement is acting downwards, it is
considered that it acting in negative direction. Therefore,
F = -k (-x) is also F= kx.
The proportionality constant k is specific for each spring. For this experiment, the
theoretical value of k of the spring is 1710N/m. The initial mass is 2kg (2x9.81=
19.62N) where its extension is 0.011 therefore the spring constant k, is 1783.63. The
experiment value is a bit differing from the theoretical value because of human error
and the weight is bouncing after it has been released. The different of the value is
very small thus, we can assume the error can be ignored. Hence, the value of
experimental and theoretical spring constant, k is approximately equal.

To determine the natural frequency, each mass on the spring is allowed to vibrate to
obtain a sinusoidal graph. The time in 5 cycles and time in 1 cycle is recorded and
calculated. The value of natural frequency is different for each mass. The natural
frequency is decreasing when force increasing. The theoretical value of natural
frequency is calculated with the formula given. For mass 3.25kg the percentage
errors is the highest, 12.14% and the lowest is 1.57% for mass 1.25kg. This is
because of some disturbance and human error while doing this experiment.