A spring experiment tests both a model and a gradient
A force–extension graph can test proportionality and measure stiffness. The units and axes determine whether the gradient is k or its reciprocal.
Follow the reasoning
- Plot force and extension with units and suitable scales.
- Fit the proportional region and use a large gradient triangle.
- Inspect whether curvature or an offset challenges the model.
Try it in a past paper 6
Open the question, then use its mark scheme to check your work.
Question 17
Find impulse from the area under a force–time graph.
Build the supporting skills. Practise Analysing before exploring this connection. This question has not been checked as a combined example of the connection.
Question 25
Interpret polarisation, transmission data and the components of a wave’s oscillation.
Build the supporting skills. Practise Analysing before exploring this connection. This question has not been checked as a combined example of the connection.
Question 8
Use LED measurements and a graph to estimate Planck’s constant and its uncertainty.
Build the supporting skills. Practise Analysing before exploring this connection. This question has not been checked as a combined example of the connection.
Question 21(a)
Determine spring stiffness from a force–extension graph.
Build the supporting skills. Practise Force–extension graphs before exploring this connection. This question has not been checked as a combined example of the connection.
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Question 4(b)(i)–(ii)
Interpret a wire’s force–extension graph to find its area and work done.
Build the supporting skills. Practise Force–extension graphs before exploring this connection. This question has not been checked as a combined example of the connection.
Question 22(a)
Describe how to measure a compression spring’s stiffness.
Build the supporting skills. Practise Force–extension graphs before exploring this connection. This question has not been checked as a combined example of the connection.
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Put the ideas to work
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Specification outcomes (4)
- 3.4.1(d)(i) Interpret force–extension or compression graphs for springs and wires.
- 3.4.2(a) Interpret force–extension (or compression) graphs; calculate work done as area under graph.
- 1.1.3(d)(i) Selection and labelling of axes with appropriate scales, quantities and units.
- 1.1.3(d)(ii) Measurement of gradients and intercepts from experimental results.