spring constant
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
A number that describes how much force is needed to stretch or compress a spring by a given distance.
Usage notes
This relationship is described by Hooke's law, which holds only up to the spring's elastic limit.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "A spring with a high _____ is much stiffer and harder to stretch."
Answer: spring constant
In your own words, what does "spring constant" mean?
A number that describes how much force is needed to stretch or compress a spring by a given distance.
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