Hooke's law
A fundamental principle stating that the extension (or compression) of a spring or elastic material is proportional to the applied force, provided the elastic limit is not exceeded: F = kx where k is the spring constant and x is the extension.
Formula
F = kx
Real World
Dyson engineers calibrate the spring constant of retractable vacuum cleaner cord mechanisms so the cord retracts with consistent, predictable force without overshooting.
Exam Focus
State 'provided the elastic limit is not exceeded' when quoting Hooke's law — omitting this condition loses a mark.
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