A vibration-isolation platform for a microscope can be fitted with spring R or spring T. In tests within each spring's linear elastic region, a force of 4.8 N extends R by 16 mm, and a force of 7.2 N extends T by 30 mm. The spring selected must be the one that extends less when the same force is applied to each spring.
Which spring should be selected?
Spring T, because it has the larger spring constant.
Spring R, because it has the smaller spring constant.
Spring T, because it has the smaller spring constant.
Spring R, because it has the larger spring constant.
102 exam-style questions on Edexcel GCSE Physics 15.1 Forces and springs, covering 15.1.1 Elastic and inelastic distortion, 15.1.2 The spring constant, 15.1.3 Work done in stretching a spring, and 15.1.4 Linear and non-linear force–extension. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.