Understanding the Concepts
* Frequency (f): The number of oscillations (complete cycles) per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
* Spring Constant (k): A measure of the stiffness of a spring. It's the force required to stretch or compress the spring by one unit of length.
* Mass (m): The amount of matter in the system.
Formula
The relationship between frequency (f), mass (m), and spring constant (k) is given by:
f = (1 / 2π) * √(k / m)
Solving for k
1. Rearrange the formula to solve for k:
k = (2πf)² * m
2. Convert mass to kilograms:
4g = 0.004 kg
3. Plug in the values:
k = (2π * 5 Hz)² * 0.004 kg
4. Calculate:
k ≈ 3.95 N/m
Therefore, the force constant of the spring is approximately 3.95 N/m.