Solve the problem.
-A force of 4 N will stretch a rubber band 5 cm. Assuming Hooke's law applies, how much work is done on the rubber band by a 12 N force?
A) 9000 J
B) 0.9 J
C) 0.3 J
D) 0.1 J

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Hooke's law, the force needed to stretch a spring is directly proportional to the amount of stretch. In this case, we can set up a proportion:
4 N / 5 cm = 12 N / x cm
Solving for x, we get x = 15 cm
So the 12 N force will stretch the rubber band by 15 cm. 
To find the work done, we need to use the formula:
Work = Force x Distance 
Work = 12 N x 0.15 m (converting cm to m) 
Work = 1.8 J 
Therefore, the answer is B) 0.9 J, which is the closest choice to 1.8 J.

Solve the Problem. -A Force of 4 N Will Stretch a Rubber Band