Physics
Physics
Problem
A 0.50 kg block is pulled 0.080 m to the right (defined as the +x direction) from the equilibrium position of an ideal spring with constant 120 N/m and then held motionless. Determine the magnitude and sign of the spring force acting on the block while it is held.Intuitive explanation
When a spring is stretched or compressed, it always pushes back toward equilibrium—that's Hooke's law in action. Here, you need to find the restoring force the spring exerts on the block, which depends on both the displacement magnitude and the direction. The key is remembering that the spring force opposes the displacement: if the block is pulled right, the spring pulls left. Use carefully, paying attention to signs.
Intuitive explanation
When a spring is stretched or compressed, it always pushes back toward equilibrium—that's Hooke's law in action. Here, you need to find the restoring force the spring exerts on the block, which depends on both the displacement magnitude and the direction. The key is remembering that the spring force opposes the displacement: if the block is pulled right, the spring pulls left. Use carefully, paying attention to signs.