Hooke’s Law Required Practical

Aim: To measure the force extension graph of a spring and calculate it’s
spring constant
Equipment:
- Spring
- 2 clamps (for a clamp stand)
- Clamp stand
- G – clamp
- Ruler
- 10g masses (5)
- Holder (1 weighs one newton)
- Ruler
- Set square
Variables:
Independent variable: force applied to spring in newtons
Dependent variable: extension (we can substitute this and the force
applied into the equation for elastic potential energy to find the spring
constant)
Control variable(s): Graduation of ruler, where you begin measuring
from, holder used to hold masses
Diagram:
Method:
1) Set up the equipment, making sure that the top of the ruler is in
line with the bottom of the spring (i.e., the top of the loop to hang
masses)
2) Place the empty holder on the loop (this is 1N of mass) and
measure the extension (make sure to read at eye level, and use a
set square to bridge the gap between the ruler and spring – these
allow for more accurate readings).
3) Repeat this five times – each time adding in another 1N mass
(make sure to place the masses gently – otherwise you could
damage the spring).
4) Plot the points on a graph, and make a line of best fit.
5) Find the gradient of the line of best fit to find the spring constant.
Table of results:
Force/N Extension/mm
1 30
2 68
3 112
4 154
5 196
6 231