TOPIC 4a: Deformation

Lesson Objectives
No Objectives R A G

1 Know that forces may produce a change in size and shape of an object
Define the spring constant as force per unit extension; recall and use the
2 force
,k=
F
equation: spring constant=
extension x
Sketch, plot and interpret load–extension graphs for an elastic solid and
3
describe the associated experimental procedure.
Define and use the term ‘limit of proportionality’ for a load–extension
4 graph and identify this point on the graph (an understanding of the
elastic limit is not required)

Concept Map

4.1
 4.1 Elasticity
A force applied to a body (object) may change its shape and size.

If the body returns to its original shape and size after the force applied is removed, then the body is elastic.
Examples: ____________________________
If the body does not return to its original shape and size after the force applied is removed, then the body is
inelastic. Examples: ____________________________

4.2 Load and extension.

Stretching a spring

Length of spring without any load (load is zero) is called its original
length or unstretched length

original When a load is hung on the spring, the force acting on the spring is the
length weight of the load.

17 cm The spring extends (becomes longer).

New
The extension is the increase in the length of the spring.
length
extension Extension = new length – original length

For example:
2N
the load on the left = ________
the extension produced = __________
Hooke’s Law.
The extension in the spring is directly proportional to the stretching force (the load) if the load
has not exceeded the limit of proportionality.

4.3 Spring constant

The spring constant, k, is defined as force per unit extension. It is the force that must be applied to
a spring to cause an extension, x of 1 m.
force F
spring constant= ∨k =
extension x

Rearrange formula F=kx

Units for spring constant = _________
Example:
1. Calculate the spring constant of a spring which
is stretched 2 mm by a force of 4 N.
2. A 2 N force is applied to a spring which has a
spring constant of 250N/m. Calculate the
extension of the spring in mm.

4.2
 3. A spring is stretched by 0.01m by a weight of 2 N.
a. Calculate the spring constant.

b. Calculate the weight of an object that causes an extension of 0.08m

4.3 Extension – Load graph.

1. Extension – load graphs always pass through origin.

2. Part of the graph is a straight line through the origin (from O to P)
3. At O to P, the extension is directly proportional to the load.
4. At the end of this straight line where the graph starts to curve is P.
P is called the limit of proportionality.
After this point, the extension is not directly proportional to the load anymore.
The extension increases more rapidly than the load, spring becomes harder to stretch.

Limit of proportionality is the maximum load for the extension to be directly proportional to the load.

4.3