Answer:
40 N/m
Explanation:
The diagram attached is used to answer the question
We know from Hooke's law that extension is directly proportional to the applied force hence
F=kx where x is extension, F is applied force and k is the spring constant. Making k the subject of the formula then
[tex]k=\frac {F}{k}[/tex]
From the attached diagram extension is given by subtracting unstretched spring from stretched spring hence extension, x=1-0.5=0.5m
Substituting 20 N for F and 0.5 m for x then
[tex]k=\frac {20}{0.5}=40 N/m[/tex]
