In this experiment, students use a Force Sensor to measure the force exerted to either compress or extend various springs. The stretch or compression of the spring is measured directly from a meter stick. The manual sampling feature of DataStudio allows students to save measurements of force for each of the chosen deformations of the spring.

Once the data is collected, students can easily create a Force vs. Stretch (or Compression) graph by dragging their table of data to the Graph icon. The slope of this graph is known as the spring constant, while the vertical intercept is the initial loading force.

PASCO Advantage:
The Force Sensor allows students to take direct measurements of force for each compression or elongation of the spring. This is superior to using a hanging mass to apply a force, since students don't have to convert from mass to force. In addition, students are applying the forces to the springs and will have a better kinesthetic feel for the amount of force being applied in each case.