Two springs of spring constants k1 and k2 are joined in series. The effective spring constant of the combination is given by
- k1k2
- (k1 + k2)/2
- k1 + k2
- k1k2/(k1 + k2)
Answer
(4) k1k2/(k1 + k2)
Solution
In series both springs carry the same force F and the extensions add:
x = x1 + x2 = Fk1 + Fk2
1k = 1k1 + 1k2
k = k1k2k1 + k2
Answer: (4)