Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Elastic and plastic behaviour

Elastic and plastic behaviour — practice question

One support holds one end of a spring in place, while a mass is hung from the other end. Fig. 3.1 shows the setup.
(a)[2]

The mass is in equilibrium. Explain what equilibrium means by referring to the forces acting on the mass.

(b(i))[1]

The mass is pulled downward and then let go at time $t = 0$. It moves up and down in oscillation. The change with $t$ of the displacement $d$ of the mass is shown in Fig. 3.2. Use Fig. 3.2 to give a time, one for each case, when the mass has maximum speed.

(b(ii))[1]

Use Fig. 3.2 to give a time when the elastic potential energy stored in the spring is greatest.

(b(iii))[1]

Use Fig. 3.2 to give a time when the mass is in equilibrium.

(c(i))[2]

State and explain whether the spring follows Hooke’s law.

(c(ii))[2]

Show that the force constant of the spring is $26\,\text{N m}^{-1}$.

(c(iii))[3]

A $0.40\,\text{kg}$ mass is attached to the spring. Calculate the energy stored in the spring.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The resultant force (and resultant torque) is zero

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