The tension t in a spring varies directly with the distance d the spring is stretched. If the tension is 36 pounds when the spring is stretched 5 inches, find the tension when the spring is stretched four times as far.
A) The tension is 144 pounds.
B) The tension is 288 pounds.
C) The tension is 139 pounds.
D) The tension is 152 pounds.
E) The tension is 156 pounds.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since tension varies directly with the distance, when the spring is stretched four times as far (5 inches * 4 = 20 inches), the tension will also increase four times. Therefore, the tension will be 36 pounds * 4 = 144 pounds.

The Tension T in a Spring Varies Directly with the Distance