Science Tutor of O&A level

Halishahar/Agrabad/GEC Circle:

O level physics
International Cambridge education

Solve the problem

biology
middle school
Cambridge International Education

combined science(stage7-9)
Middle school
cambbridge

Edexcel Physics IGCSE
Chapter 1: Forces and Motion
Practical Notes
# # Investigate how Extension Varies with Applied Force

Equipment
● Clamp
● Clamp stand
● 10x 0.1kg masses
● Spring
● Ruler
● G clamp or additional weights

Method
1. Using the ruler, measure the initial length of the first spring when no force is applied.
2. Set up the spring so it is hanging securely from the clamp stand.
○ You can also secure the ruler to the clamp stand to ensure it does not move at all
during the experiment.
3. Add one of the masses to the end of the spring and record the extension of the spring.
○ The extension is the difference between the new length and the initial length.
4. Continue adding masses and recording the extension each time.
5. Plot a graph of force applied against the extension of the spring.
○ Force can be calculated from mass x gravitational field strength (i.e. 10 x the mass
hanging on the spring).
k = x
F
6. Using this value, you can calculate the work done each time the spring extends
○ The gradient of the line of best fit will be the spring constant as .
○ Use the formula .
W = 2
1 2
kx
Tips
● Ensure all measurements are taken from eye level in order to avoid parallax error.
● After every measurement, remove all weights and ensure that the spring has not undergone
plastic deformation - it should always return to the same initial length.
● All lengths should be measured in metres.
Safety Precautions
● Ensure goggles are worn during this experiment in case the spring snaps.
● Use heavy objects or a G clamp to secure the clamp stand to the desk so that the clamp
and masses do not fall over and cause injury.