5.2.13

Hooke's Law and Equation

Test yourself

Hooke's Law - Extending Springs

A force acting on an object may change its size or shape. For example, squashing or twisting an object can change its shape.

Illustrative background for Hooke's LawIllustrative background for Hooke's Law ?? "content

Hooke's Law

  • When a spring is stretched, the increase in the length of the spring is called its “extension”.
  • Hooke’s Law tells us that the extension of a spring is directly proportional to the force applied to the spring:
              force = spring constant x extension.
Illustrative background for Limit of proportionalityIllustrative background for Limit of proportionality ?? "content

Limit of proportionality

  • Think of the spring constant as the stiffness of the spring. This is different for different objects.
  • The higher the spring constant, the “stiffer” the spring and the more force is needed to stretch it.
  • The limit of proportionality is the point where Hooke’s law breaks down.
  • If a spring is stretched too much, it will not return to its original length when the force stops acting on the spring.

Jump to other topics

1Energy

2Electricity

3Particle Model of Matter

4Atoms & Radiation

5Forces

5.1Basics of Motion

5.2Forces

5.3Effects of Forces

5.4Pressure

6Waves

7Magnetism

8Astrophysics

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson