HESI A2 Physics Related

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If a force of 12 kg stretches a spring by 3 cm, how far will the spring stretch when a force of 30 kg is applied?

  • A. 6 cm
  • B. 7.5 cm
  • C. 9 cm
  • D. 10.5 cm
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The extension of a spring is directly proportional to the force applied. In this case, the force increases from 12 kg to 30 kg, which is a 2.5 times increase. Therefore, the extension of the spring will also increase by 2.5 times. Given that the spring stretches 3 cm with a force of 12 kg, multiplying 3 cm by 2.5 gives us the extension of the spring when a force of 30 kg is applied, which equals 7.5 cm. Therefore, the correct answer is 7.5 cm. Choice A, 6 cm, is incorrect because it does not account for the proportional increase in force. Choice C, 9 cm, and Choice D, 10.5 cm, are incorrect as they overestimate the extension of the spring by not considering the direct proportionality between force and extension.