A-LevelPhysicsDeformation of solids9702/12 · Oct/Nov 2010 · Q221 Mark
To determine the mass of food in a pan, a scale is used that has high sensitivity for small masses but low sensitivity for large masses. To do this, two springs are used, each with a different spring constant k. One of the springs has a low spring constant and the other has a high spring constant. Which arrangement of springs would be suitable?
This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.
AArrangement with a low k spring at the top, connected in series with a high k spring (the high k spring is inside a rigid box and engages for larger loads).
BArrangement with a low k spring at the top, connected in series with a high k spring (the high k spring is inside a rigid box and engages for larger loads).
CArrangement with a high k spring at the top, connected in series with a low k spring (the low k spring is inside a rigid box and engages for larger loads).
DArrangement with a low k spring and a high k spring connected in parallel.
✓ Correct answer
A: Arrangement with a low k spring at the top, connected in series with a high k spring (the high k spring is inside a rigid box and engages for larger loads).
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