The force constant of a spring, also known as the spring constant, is a measure of the stiffness of a spring. It is represented by the letter k and is measured in units of newtons per meter (N/m).
The force constant of a spring can be calculated by dividing the force applied to the spring by the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position. It can also be calculated by dividing the energy stored in the spring by the distance it is stretched or compressed.
The force constant of a spring is affected by the material, length, and cross-sectional area of the spring. It is also affected by the number of turns in the spring and the type of end attachments.
The force constant and spring stiffness are directly proportional. This means that as the force constant increases, the spring will become stiffer and require more force to stretch or compress.
The force constant of a spring is an important factor in understanding how a spring will behave when a force is applied to it. It is also used in various equations and formulas to calculate the motion and energy of a spring.