PHYSICS CONNECTION
Sample stiffness and Young modulus describe different things
A wire’s force constant depends on its dimensions as well as its material. Young modulus separates the material behaviour from the sample’s length and cross-sectional area.
k = EA/L
Follow the reasoning
- Write Young modulus as stress divided by strain.
- Substitute stress = F/A and strain = x/L.
- Compare the resulting F/x with the force constant.
OFFICIAL OCR QUESTIONS
Try it in a past paper 1
Open the question, then use its mark scheme to check your work.
Question 21(b)–(c)
Determine Young modulus and evaluate measurement uncertainty.
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ORIGINAL PHYSICSUK QUESTIONS
Put the ideas to work
More practice is on its way
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Specification outcomes (3)
- 3.4.1(c) Define the force constant k of a spring or wire using F = kx.
- 3.4.2(c) Define and use stress, strain and ultimate tensile strength.
- 3.4.2(d)(i) Define Young modulus, E = stress / strain.