Answer:
a) k = 891.82 N/m
b) e = 0.0143 m = 1.43 cm
c) W = 5.02 J
Explanation:
Step 1: Data given
Mass = 2.60 kg
the spring stretches 2.86 cm = 0.0286
Step 2: What is the force constant of the spring?
Force constant, k = force applied / extension produced
k = (2.60kg * 9.81N/kg) / 0.0326 m
k = 891.82 N/m
b) If the 2.60-kg object is removed, how far will the spring stretch if a 1.30-kg block is hung on it
Extension = F/k = (1.30 kg * 9.81) / 891.82 = 0.0143 m = 1.43 cm
Half the mass means half the extension
c) How much work must an external agent do to stretch the same spring 7.50 cm from its unstretched position?
W = average force used * distance
W = 1/2 * k*e * e = 1/2 k*e²
W = 1/2 * 891.82 * (0.075)² = W = 5.02 J