1.30 understand that the initial linear region of a force-extension graph is associated with Hooke’s law

1.30 understand that the initial linear region of a force-extension graph is associated with Hooke’s law

Hooke’s law, “Within the elastic limit, extension is directly proportional to the load i.e. e α f”

Hooke measured the increase in length (extension) produced by different load forces on springs. The graph he obtained by plotting force against extension looked like that below. This straight line passing through the origin shows that the extension of the spring is proportional to the force. The relationship is known as Hooke’s law.

Hooke’s Law only applies if you do not stretch a spring to far. At a point the elastic limit it starts to stretch more for each successive increase in the load force. Once you have stretch a spring beyond this limit it has changed shape permanently and will not return to its original shape.